DRDO Enhances Deep Tech Collaboration and Industry Participation Under TDF Scheme

New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has initiated the approval of new Deep Tech and Cutting-Edge policies under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme to strengthen industry collaboration in defence technology. This move is aimed at encouraging DRDO establishments to engage private sector entities in the collaborative development of emerging technologies while providing grants to private enterprises for specific technology development.

DRDO laboratories have structured research roadmaps designed to align with global advancements in defence technologies and products. To stay at the forefront of innovation, DRDO conducts a global scan using authoritative frameworks and actively monitors technological developments in the public domain, including social media platforms. Additionally, a bi-monthly document is prepared to provide a comprehensive global review of new technologies and systems developed worldwide. To support its scientists, DRDO also provides online access to various international databases related to defence science and technology.

In line with its commitment to fostering synergy among academia, industry, and its research bodies, DRDO aims to ensure the effective transition of academic research into industrial applications, thereby advancing the indigenization of technologies. The role of startups, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and industries remains integral to this process.

To realize this vision, DRDO has established a network of DRDO Industry Academia Centres of Excellence (DIA-CoEs) to promote collaborative directed research, facilitating the development of critical and futuristic technologies for defence and security applications. A total of 15 DIA-CoEs have been set up across the country at premier institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), and central universities. Each DIA-CoE focuses on technology development in designated futuristic research areas across 84 identified research verticals. Additionally, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been activated to streamline industry engagement with academia through these centres.

This information was provided by Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth in a written reply to Sanjna Jatav in the Lok Sabha today. The initiative highlights DRDO’s proactive approach in leveraging deep technology and strengthening collaborations to enhance India’s defence capabilities and self-reliance in critical technology domains.