"Rajnath Urges DRDO Labs to Identify 2-3 Projects for Completion This Year".

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently called on the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to collaborate with start-ups in its research and development (R&D) initiatives. He also tasked each of DRDO's labs with identifying 2-3 critical projects for completion by the end of this year, with an ambitious target of 100 projects to be completed by the next foundation year.

Singh made these remarks during his visit to DRDO Headquarters in the national capital, where he marked the 67th Foundation Day of the organisation and interacted with senior scientists and officials. Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, also attended the meeting.

Highlighting the importance of engaging start-ups, Singh noted that such collaboration would facilitate the exchange of innovative ideas and help the Indian defence sector develop technologies that adapt to modern challenges. He encouraged each DRDO lab to host two open days each month to foster interactions with the industry, further strengthening partnerships.

The Defence Minister also urged DRDO to raise awareness of its work and inspire youth to contribute to national development. He emphasized the role DRDO can play as a catalyst, creating an ecosystem that integrates defence, dual-use technologies, and civilian applications, leading to transformative advancements for both sectors.

Regarding the upcoming 'Year of Reforms' in 2025, Singh stressed that DRDO must play a key role in achieving the set objectives and keeping pace with the rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Singh also appreciated DRDO's efforts to increase private sector collaboration, including providing access to its technologies and patents. He suggested that the organisation identify further areas where private sector participation could be expanded.

During the meeting, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, briefed Singh on the ongoing R&D activities and DRDO’s achievements in 2024, along with the roadmap for 2025.

Kamat highlighted that DRDO had transferred 1,950 technologies to Indian industries, including 256 licensing agreements signed in 2024. Additionally, over 19 Development-cum-Production Partners/Production Agencies were selected for mission-mode projects. DRDO’s test facilities have been made available to the private sector, with more than 18,000 tests conducted over the past three years, including over 5,000 tests in 2024 alone.

On the occasion, Singh also felicitated the design team behind the Long Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile for their contributions.

HBL