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Key Points

The DRDO has committed full support to MSMEs for advancing India's defence production capabilities. Over 100 companies participated in a special conclave in Lucknow to discuss collaboration opportunities. Defence production has achieved record levels under the Make in India initiative. The iDEX scheme continues to drive innovation with significant funding for startups and MSMEs.

Key Points: DRDO Assures MSMEs Full Support in Defence R&D and Production

  • DRDO conducted Lucknow conclave with 100+ MSMEs for defence collaboration
  • Focus on skill development and funding for defence R&D projects
  • Defence production reached record Rs 1.27 lakh crore in FY24
  • iDEX scheme allocated Rs 449 crore for 2025-26 innovation support
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DRDO assures MSMEs of full support in defence production, R&D

DRDO pledges comprehensive backing for MSMEs in defence manufacturing and R&D to boost Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Over 100 firms participated in Lucknow conclave.

"It is the opportune time for MSMEs to engage in defence R&D - Dr Samir V. Kamat, DRDO Chairman"

Lucknow, Sept 7

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has assured micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) all possible support to make the country self-reliant in defence production as part of the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, according to a Defence Ministry statement issued on Sunday.

The DRDO’s Defence Technology and Test Centre (DTTC), Lucknow, conducted a conclave at Amausi Campus on Saturday to apprise and collaborate with MSMEs and startups for defence R&D and production with an aim to further develop the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor.

More than 100 participants from various MSMEs, startups, and the Laghu Udhyog Bharti deliberated upon aspects of skill development and funding for R&D, technical consultancy and technology development & transfer by the DRDO.

In his inaugural address, DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V. Kamat described the DTTC as a brainchild of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, which is today bearing fruit for the benefit of industries. He informed the MSMEs about the various technologies & industry-centric policies for the MSMEs and said that it is the opportune time for MSMEs to engage in defence R&D.

The Defence Minister has complimented DRDO and the MSMEs for organising the conclave and appreciated the important role played by MSMEs to realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Among those who attended the event were DG, Naval Systems & Materials, R.V. Hara Prasad, DG, Technology Management, L.C. Mangal and DG, Human Resources, Mayank Dwivedi.

India’s defence production has grown at an extraordinary pace since the launch of the "Make in India" initiative, reaching a record Rs 1.27 lakh crore in FY 2023-24, with defence exports rising to an all-time high of Rs 23,622 crore in FY 2024-25. Once dependent on foreign suppliers, the country now stands as a rising force in indigenous manufacturing, shaping its military strength through home-grown capabilities. This shift reflects a strong commitment to self-reliance, ensuring that India not only meets its security needs but also builds a robust defence industry that contributes to economic growth.

Launched in April 2018, Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) has created a thriving ecosystem for innovation and technology development in defence and aerospace. By engaging MSMEs, startups, individual innovators, R&D institutes, and academia, iDEX has provided grants of up to Rs 1.5 crore for developing innovative technologies. To further enhance self-reliance in defence technology, Rs 449.62 crore has been allocated to 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 opened, involving 619 startups and MSMEs, with 430 iDEX contracts signed.

The recently launched ADITI scheme aims to support critical and strategic technologies such as satellite communication, advanced cyber technology, autonomous weapons, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, nuclear technologies, and underwater surveillance. Under this scheme, grants of up to Rs 25 crore are provided to innovators.

Reinforcing its commitment to supporting startups and MSMEs, the Ministry of Defence has also cleared 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 worth over Rs 1,500 crore have been approved for development.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone working in the manufacturing sector, I appreciate DRDO's outreach. The funding support and technical consultancy mentioned could really help small businesses scale up their capabilities.
V
Vikram M
The numbers speak for themselves - Rs 1.27 lakh crore in defence production! This is massive growth. Hope the benefits reach smaller towns and not just metro cities. UP Defence Corridor should focus on inclusive development.
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Priya S
While the initiative is good, I hope the process for MSMEs to actually access these grants and support is simplified. Often, small businesses struggle with bureaucratic procedures. Hope DRDO makes it truly accessible.
M
Michael C
The ADITI scheme with grants up to Rs 25 crore for critical technologies is impressive. This level of funding can really accelerate innovation in areas like AI and quantum tech. India is positioning itself well for the future.
R
Rohit P
Defence exports of Rs 23,622 crore! 🤯 From being import-dependent to becoming an exporter - this is the kind of transformation we needed. Proud of our defence manufacturing sector's growth!
K
Kavya N
Hope they also focus on quality control and standards. Defence equipment cannot compromise on quality. MSMEs need proper guidance and monitoring to maintain international standards.

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