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Key Points

AICTE has introduced a new minor degree program in Defence Technology for engineering students. The curriculum focuses on specialized areas like aeronautics, naval systems, and cybersecurity. It was developed through extensive consultations with defence stakeholders including Armed Forces and industry. This initiative aims to create skilled professionals to support India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Key Points: AICTE Launches Defence Technology Degree for Atmanirbhar Bharat

  • Curriculum covers aeronautical systems, naval technologies and weapon systems
  • Includes cybersecurity and advanced materials for defence applications
  • Program features field visits, seminars and practical industry exposure
  • Designed to address industry-ready manpower gap in defence production
  • Aligns with Armed Forces, DRDO and defence manufacturing needs
2 min read

AICTE unveils model curriculum for degree in Defence Technology to boost Atmanirbhar Bharat mission

New model curriculum for engineering students focuses on aeronautics, naval tech, cybersecurity to boost indigenous defence manufacturing and skilled workforce.

"India is undergoing a significant transformation in the defence sector, fueled by the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat and rapid technological advancements. - T.G. Sitharam"

New Delhi, October 1

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) on Wednesday launched a Model Curriculum for Minor Degree in Defence Technology for undergraduate engineering and technology programmes, in a bid to strengthen indigenous capabilities and create a skilled workforce for the defence sector.

The curriculum was unveiled by AICTE Chairman T.G. Sitharam in the presence of Member Secretary Shyama Rath, Aeronautical Society of India President and Chairman of the Curriculum Committee G. Satheesh Reddy, and Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) President Rajinder Singh Bhatia, along with senior officials and representatives from the defence sector.

Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Sitharam said, "India is undergoing a significant transformation in the defence sector, fueled by the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat and rapid technological advancements. In this evolving landscape, nurturing a pool of skilled, innovative, and passionate talent in defence technologies is critical to strengthening our national security and advancing indigenous capabilities."

He noted that the programme is designed to give students specialised knowledge in aeronautical systems, naval technologies, weapon systems, cybersecurity, and advanced materials, while aligning with the evolving needs of the Armed Forces, DRDO and the defence manufacturing industry.

G Satheesh Reddy, who chaired the committee that drafted the curriculum, said it was prepared after extensive consultations with stakeholders from the Armed Forces, industry, DRDO and academia. "It strikes a balance between the country's defence needs and available possibilities. This Minor Degree programme also includes field visits, seminars, and practical exposure to strengthen student learning," he added.

Echoing industry concerns, SIDM President Rajinder Singh Bhatia said the absence of industry-ready manpower has long hindered defence production. "This initiative will bridge the gap by offering specialized courses on defence technology and manufacturing processes, which so far have been limited in higher education," he noted.

AICTE said the launch reaffirms its commitment to integrate national priorities with higher education and prepare the next generation of engineers to meet the complex demands of the defence sector, paving the way for a self-reliant and technologically advanced India.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As an engineering student, I'm really excited about this opportunity. The inclusion of field visits and practical exposure will give us hands-on experience that regular courses lack. Hope more colleges adopt this minor degree program soon!
R
Rohit P
Great initiative but implementation is key. Hope AICTE ensures proper infrastructure and qualified faculty across all colleges. We've seen many such programs fail due to poor execution.
S
Sarah B
The focus on cybersecurity in defence technology is much needed. With increasing digital threats, this will help create specialists who can protect our critical infrastructure. Well thought out curriculum!
K
Karthik V
Finally addressing the industry-ready manpower gap! Defence manufacturing requires specialized skills that regular engineering courses don't provide. This will boost Make in India in defence sector significantly.
M
Michael C
The collaboration with Armed Forces, DRDO and industry experts in designing this curriculum is impressive. This ensures the program remains relevant to actual defence needs rather than being just theoretical.

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