Raksha Mantri Leads Defence Committee Visit to DRDO Laboratory in Pune; Focus on Indigenous Defence Innovation
The Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, recently toured the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune. This premier laboratory, part of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) under the Armament & Combat Engineering Systems (ACE) cluster, showcases India's significant progress toward technological independence and homegrown defence production.
Inspection of Advanced Indigenous Systems
During their visit, the committee reviewed numerous cutting-edge defence systems created by DRDO’s ACE cluster. The demonstrations featured the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), PINAKA Rocket System, Light Tank ‘Zorawar’, Wheeled Armoured Platform, and the AKASH-New Generation Missile. Additionally, officials presented updates on innovations in robotics, rail guns, electromagnetic aircraft launch systems (EMALS), and high-energy propulsion materials. The future research and development priorities of the cluster were also discussed in detail.
‘Emerging Technologies are a Necessity, Not a Choice’
Speaking to the committee on the topic of 'Emerging Technologies and DRDO,' Rajnath Singh highlighted the crucial role of innovation and adaptation in contemporary warfare. "We live in an era dominated by technology. The nation that values science and innovation is set to lead the future," he stated. He emphasized that technology has become the cornerstone of India’s strategic and defence decisions, affirming the government's commitment to integrating advanced technologies into the national security framework.
From Users to Creators of Technology
Rajnath Singh stressed the importance of India moving beyond reliance on foreign systems by saying, "We should strive not only to use technology but also to create it. To achieve this, we must expedite our efforts towards self-reliance. Aatmanirbharta in defence is not merely a goal but the strongest shield for our national security."
He further cautioned that global protectionism often limits access to disruptive technologies but stated that India has successfully countered these challenges through clear intent and bold policies. "India is not only fulfilling its own needs but is also emerging as a trusted defence partner worldwide," he remarked.
Empowering the R&D Ecosystem
Rajnath Singh commended DRDO for developing technologies that were previously imported, now achieving global standards. He stated that India’s research and development sector has transformed into a national movement, incorporating industry, academia, and start-ups. "DRDO, public sector enterprises, private industries, start-ups, and academia are jointly establishing new milestones in defence innovation," he said, emphasizing the efforts of young innovators in AI, cybersecurity, robotics, quantum communication, and space technology.
Committee’s Feedback and Way Forward
The Consultative Committee members expressed satisfaction with the progress and accomplishments of DRDO’s ACE cluster, offering valuable suggestions for future policy directions. Rajnath Singh assured that their feedback would be carefully considered.
The meeting included Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar, DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat, senior Ministry of Defence officials, and scientists from the ACE cluster.
