The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startups in defence production and research, aligning with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. At a conclave held by the DRDO’s Defence Technology and Test Centre (DTTC) in Lucknow, over 100 participants from MSMEs, startups, and Laghu Udhyog Bharti engaged in discussions on skill development, funding, technical consultancy, and technology transfer.
DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V. Kamat, in his inaugural address, credited Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for conceptualizing the DTTC and emphasized the readiness of DRDO to support industry-centric innovation. The Defence Minister commended the conclave and acknowledged the vital role of MSMEs in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of self-reliance.
India’s defence production has surged to Rs 1.27 trillion in FY 2023–24, with exports reaching Rs 23.62 billion in FY 2024–25. This marks a significant shift from reliance on foreign suppliers to indigenous manufacturing, reinforcing national security and economic growth.
The Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative, launched in April 2018, has cultivated a vibrant ecosystem for defence and aerospace innovation. With Rs 449.62 crore allocated for 2025–26, including the ADITI sub-scheme, iDEX has supported 619 startups and MSMEs through 430 signed contracts and 549 problem statements. Grants of up to Rs 1.5 crore are provided under iDEX, while ADITI offers up to Rs 25 crore for strategic technologies such as satellite communication, cyber systems, autonomous weapons, semiconductors, AI, quantum and nuclear technologies, and underwater surveillance.
Further reinforcing its support, the Ministry of Defence has approved procurement of 43 items worth over Rs 2,400 crore from iDEX-linked startups and MSMEs, with additional projects exceeding Rs 1,500 crore sanctioned for development.
