Will DRDO Fully Support MSMEs in Defense Production and R&D?
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Synopsis
Discover how the DRDO is empowering MSMEs to drive India's defense production and R&D efforts, aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. This initiative promises to transform the landscape of indigenous manufacturing and foster economic growth.
Key Takeaways
- DRDO pledges support to MSMEs for defense R&D.
- Conclave in Lucknow fosters collaboration for innovation.
- India’s defense production reaches record levels.
- iDEX offers significant funding for innovative technologies.
- ADITI scheme backs strategic technological advancements.
Lucknow, Sept 7 (NationPress) The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has pledged unwavering support to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to propel the nation toward self-sufficiency in defense production, aligning with the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, as stated in a recent release from the Defence Ministry.
The DRDO’s Defence Technology and Test Centre (DTTC) in Lucknow hosted a conclave at the Amausi Campus on Saturday, aiming to engage with MSMEs and startups for collaborative efforts in defense R&D and production, particularly focusing on the growth of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor.
Over 100 representatives from various MSMEs, startups, and the Laghu Udhyog Bharti convened to discuss vital areas such as skill enhancement, funding for R&D, technical consulting, and technology transfer facilitated by the DRDO.
During his opening remarks, DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat referred to the DTTC as an initiative inspired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, now reaping benefits for industries. He informed MSMEs about various technology and industry-specific policies, emphasizing that now is an opportune moment for MSMEs to participate in defense R&D.
The Defence Minister commended the efforts of both the DRDO and the MSMEs in organizing the conclave, acknowledging the crucial role of MSMEs in fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Notable attendees included R.V. Hara Prasad, L.C. Mangal, and Mayank Dwivedi.
India’s defense production has surged remarkably since the inception of the “Make in India” initiative, reaching an unprecedented Rs 1.27 lakh crore in FY 2023-24, with defense exports skyrocketing to a record Rs 23,622 crore in FY 2024-25. Once reliant on foreign suppliers, India now stands as a formidable force in indigenous manufacturing, enhancing its military capabilities through home-grown technologies. This transformation signifies a robust commitment to self-reliance, ensuring that India not only satisfies its security demands but also fosters a strong defense industry that propels economic advancement.
Since its launch in April 2018, Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) has cultivated a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and technological advancement in defense and aerospace. By engaging MSMEs, startups, individual innovators, R&D institutions, and academic entities, iDEX has allocated grants of up to Rs 1.5 crore for the development of cutting-edge technologies. To further bolster self-reliance in defense tech, Rs 449.62 crore has been earmarked for iDEX, including its sub-scheme Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI), for 2025-26. As of February 2025, 549 problem statements have been released, involving 619 startups and MSMEs, with 430 iDEX contracts already signed.
The newly introduced ADITI scheme focuses on vital and strategic technologies such as satellite communication, advanced cyber technology, autonomous weapons, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, nuclear technologies, and underwater surveillance, offering grants of up to Rs 25 crore to innovators.
Reiterating its dedication to backing startups and MSMEs, the Ministry of Defence has authorized the procurement of 43 items worth over Rs 2,400 crore from iDEX startups and MSMEs for the Armed Forces as of February 2025. Additionally, projects valued at over Rs 1,500 crore have received approval for development.
Point of View
The DRDO’s initiative to support MSMEs is a strategic move that aligns with the broader goals of self-reliance in defense. The collaboration between government organizations and private enterprises is crucial for fostering innovation, economic growth, and national security. As the country aims to enhance its defense capabilities, partnerships with MSMEs will be fundamental in achieving these objectives.
NationPress
07/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of MSMEs in India's defense production?
MSMEs play a crucial role by providing innovative solutions, enhancing production capabilities, and contributing to the indigenous manufacturing ecosystem, thereby supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
How much funding is available for iDEX initiatives?
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) offers grants of up to Rs 1.5 crore for developing innovative technologies, with an additional Rs 449.62 crore allocated for 2025-26 to support self-reliance in defense technology.
What technologies are supported under the ADITI scheme?
The ADITI scheme supports critical technologies such as satellite communication, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and advanced cyber technology, with grants available up to Rs 25 crore for innovators.
