The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) launched initiatives through its DIA-CoE at IIT Delhi on December 19, 2024. The event titled ‘DRDO-Industry-Academia Global Approach to Readiness of Indigenous Military Applications’ saw the signing of ten tripartite agreements aimed at enhancing indigenous military capabilities. This effort aligns with India’s objective of self-reliance in defence technology.
Overview of DIA-CoE
The DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) was established to encourage collaboration between academia and industry. It aims to develop advanced defence technologies. The initiative is part of the broader ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign, which promotes self-sufficiency in various sectors.
Key Agreements Signed
During the event, ten agreements were established. These included technology transfers for lightweight bullet-resistant jackets and collaborations for extreme weather clothing production. Notable industry partners included MIDHANI, Reliance Industries Ltd, and Aeronav Industrial Safety Appliance.
Research and Development Focus
DIA-CoE focuses on soldier-centric innovations. Key projects include lightweight body armour, smart jackets, and advanced materials for aerostats. The centre has initiated around 50 research projects over seven years, with funding of ₹375 crore from DRDO.
Engagement with Academia
The centre has engaged nearly 100 faculty members and 200 research scholars. This collaboration aims to enhance the capability and capacity of defence R&D in India. The Long Term Directed Research Policy facilitates focused research efforts to meet national security needs.
Standard Operating Procedures
To actively involve industry, the Directorate of Futuristic Technology Management (DFTM) developed Standard Operating Procedures. These guidelines encourage industry participation in defence research through DIA-CoEs.
Government Support and Interest
The initiative has received attention from government officials. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed interest in the projects during an exhibition, denoting the importance of collaboration between scientists, researchers, and industry partners.
Future Directions
The DIA-CoE is expected to continue its efforts in developing cutting-edge technologies. By integrating academic research with industry expertise, it aims to enhance India’s defence capabilities and contribute to national security.
Impact on National Security
These initiatives are crucial for improving indigenous defence production. They aim to reduce dependence on foreign technologies and strengthen India’s strategic capabilities.
Collaboration with Industries
The partnerships formed through DIA-CoE are vital for translating research into practical applications. This collaboration is essential for achieving high technology readiness levels in defence systems.
Conclusion on Indigenous Development
The DIA-CoE represents step towards achieving self-reliance in defence technology. It exemplifies the collaborative effort required to meet the evolving needs of national security.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of the Defence Research and Development Organisation in promoting indigenous military technology in India.
- What are the implications of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative on India’s defence manufacturing sector? Discuss with examples.
- Estimate the impact of collaboration between academia and industry on technological advancements in the defence sector.
- Point out the significance of lightweight materials in modern warfare. How do they enhance soldier safety and performance?
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the role of the Defence Research and Development Organisation in promoting indigenous military technology in India.
- DRDO facilitates technology transfer and development through partnerships with industry and academia.
- It has initiated several projects focused on soldier-centric innovations and advanced materials.
- Funding of ₹375 crore over seven years demonstrates investment in indigenous capabilities.
- DRDO’s Long Term Directed Research Policy aligns with national security needs and self-reliance goals.
- Through initiatives like DIA-CoE, DRDO enhances collaboration, ensuring technology readiness and practical applications.
2. What are the implications of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative on India’s defence manufacturing sector? Discuss with examples.
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat promotes self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on foreign defence imports.
- It encourages indigenous production, exemplified by agreements for lightweight bullet-resistant jackets.
- Collaboration between DRDO and private industries boosts local manufacturing capabilities.
- Focus on research and development leads to advanced technologies, such as smart soldier jackets.
- Overall, it strengthens national security by enhancing domestic defence capabilities and innovation.
3. Estimate the impact of collaboration between academia and industry on technological advancements in the defence sector.
- Collaboration encourages innovation by combining academic research with practical industry applications.
- Engagement of 100 faculty members and 200 research scholars enhances research output and expertise.
- Joint projects lead to the development of cutting-edge technologies, improving defence readiness.
- Industry partnerships translate research into products, such as extreme weather protective clothing.
- This synergy ultimately accelerates the pace of technological advancements and self-reliance in defence.
4. Point out the significance of lightweight materials in modern warfare. How do they enhance soldier safety and performance?
- Lightweight materials reduce the burden on soldiers, enhancing mobility and endurance.
- They improve safety by providing effective protection without compromising agility.
- Advanced materials contribute to the development of high-performance body armour and gear.
- Lightweight clothing aids in temperature regulation, essential for extreme weather conditions.
- Overall, these materials are critical for modern soldier-centric innovations in military operations.
