India’s ADITI Scheme and DEFCON 2024: Empowering Defence Innovation and Self-Reliance
Image Source: SSBCrack
In a significant stride toward bolstering India’s defense capabilities, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched the Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme during DefConnect 2024 in New Delhi on March 04, 2024. This scheme, falling under the iDEX framework of the Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence, aims to foster innovations in critical and strategic defense technologies by providing startups with grants of up to Rs 25 crore for research, development, and innovation endeavors. With an allocated budget of Rs 750 crore for 2023-24 to 2025-26, the ADITI scheme seeks to develop about 30 deep-tech critical and strategic technologies, nurturing youth innovation and propelling India forward in the field of technology.
Shri Rajnath Singh, addressing a gathering of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and policymakers, emphasized the government’s commitment to encouraging youth innovation. He highlighted the expansion of iDEX to iDEX Prime, with support increasing from Rs 1.5 crore to Rs 10 crore, showcasing the government’s support for innovative endeavors. The ADITI scheme, launched amidst encouraging participation from startups, represents a strategic move toward transforming India into a knowledge society, aligning with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of leveraging innovation for national progress.
The event also witnessed the launch of the eleventh edition of the Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC), introducing 22 problem statements aimed at addressing critical defense challenges. These projects underscore India’s proactive approach toward fostering collaboration between the defense establishment and the startup ecosystem, inviting innovators to propose solutions that enhance defense capabilities and contribute to national security.
Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated the government’s focus on self-reliance in defense production, emphasizing the importance of mastering the latest defense technology. He underscored India’s need to enhance its technology to maintain strategic autonomy, highlighting the government’s efforts to promote research and development (R&D) and nurture a conducive atmosphere for innovation. The significant growth in domestic defense manufacturing, crossing the milestone of Rs one lakh crore, reflects the positive outcomes of government initiatives aimed at promoting indigenous production.
Moreover, the event showcased the various types of technology startups at the forefront of innovation in the defense sector through a technology exhibit organized by iDEX-Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO). These startups, specializing in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Cybersecurity, offer solutions to enhance defense capabilities and safeguard national interests. Additionally, DefConnect 2024 featured a thought-provoking panel discussion on ‘Women as Drivers of Change,’ highlighting the pivotal role of women in shaping the future of defense innovation.
As part of its ongoing efforts to nurture young talent, iDEX announced the launch of a rolling internship program, providing hands-on experience and mentorship in defense innovation. Strategic partnerships with investors under the iDEX Investors Hub (IIH) will further facilitate increased investment in defense startups, driving innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector.
The launch of the ADITI Scheme, DISC eleven, and other initiatives during DefConnect 2024 underscores India’s commitment to promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance in defense manufacturing. These initiatives are poised to accelerate India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in defense technology and innovation, ensuring the nation’s security and sovereignty in the years to come.
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- Tanya Singh Yadav is a master's student currently in her fourth semester, passionately pursuing career opportunities within organisations that advocate for environmental consciousness while providing avenues for personal growth and development.
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