India’s Defence Ministry Boosts Tech with Rs 300 Crore for ‘Aatmanirbharta’
The Ministry of Defence in India has allocated over Rs 300 crore through its Technology Development Fund (TDF) to enhance capabilities in advanced technology and promote self-reliance in defence. The TDF, managed by DRDO under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, supports Indian industries, including MSMEs and startups, in developing defence technologies.
Key Projects and Innovations
Several successful projects have emerged from this initiative:
- Combat Robotics: This Pune-based startup developed an innovative simulator for unmanned vehicles, aiding in the development of autonomous systems.
- ChiStats Labs Private Limited: Another Pune-based startup, ChiStats Labs, is working on virtual sensors for aero gas turbine engine health monitoring, using AI/ML technologies.
- NewSpace Research and Technologies Pvt. Ltd.: Based in Bengaluru, this company created an autonomous drone for indoor search and rescue operations, capable of functioning in zero light conditions.
These projects highlight the Ministry’s efforts to foster a culture of design and development in military technology, aiming for ‘Aatmanirbharta’ or self-reliance in defence technology.