On January 2, 2025, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh visited the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Headquarters in New Delhi to commemorate the organization’s 67th Foundation Day. The event saw participation from senior scientists, officials, and Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, underscoring the importance of DRDO’s contributions to India’s defense and technological advancements.
Acknowledging DRDO’s Contributions
In his address, Shri Rajnath Singh lauded DRDO for its pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s Indigenous defense capabilities. He highlighted the organization’s consistent efforts in equipping the Armed Forces with cutting-edge technology and promoting collaboration with the private sector. This synergy, he emphasized, has significantly bolstered India’s defense infrastructure and technological self-reliance.
Vision for 2025: A Year of Reforms
With 2025 declared as the ‘Year of Reforms,’ Shri Rajnath Singh underscored DRDO’s critical role in driving technological advancements. He urged the organization to align with rapidly evolving global technologies and continuously develop relevant products. Emphasizing the need to stay competitive, he encouraged DRDO scientists to monitor international advancements and focus on niche technology development.
Shri Rajnath Singh also proposed that each DRDO lab should identify and complete 2-3 critical projects by the end of 2025, aiming for a total of 100 completed projects by the next Foundation Day.
Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships
The Raksha Mantri commended DRDO‘s efforts in increasing collaboration with the private sector, noting the organization’s policy of providing free access to its patents and technologies. He called for further exploration of potential areas for private sector involvement, underscoring the importance of collective effort in national progress.
Additionally, Shri Rajnath Singh encouraged DRDO to involve start-ups in its R&D initiatives, fostering innovation and dynamic idea exchange. He proposed that each DRDO lab host two open days monthly to engage with industry stakeholders and inspire young minds to contribute to defence advancements.
Catalysing Technological Revolution
Highlighting DRDO’s role as a catalyst, Shri Rajnath Singh expressed confidence in the organization’s ability to inspire academia, industries, and other institutions. He envisioned DRDO creating a new ecosystem focused on dual-use technologies that benefit both defence and civilian sectors, fostering transformative change across the nation.
Review of Achievements and Roadmap for the Future
During the meeting, Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, briefed Shri Rajnath Singh on the organization’s 2024 achievements and ongoing projects. Notable milestones included the signing of 256 Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technologies (ToTs) with Indian industries and the selection of 19 Development cum Production Partners for Mission Mode projects.
Dr. Kamat highlighted DRDO’s initiative of opening its test facilities to private industries, with over 18,000 tests conducted in the past three years and 5,000 tests completed in 2024 alone.
Honoring Innovation and Excellence
In recognition of DRDO’s innovative efforts, Shri Rajnath Singh felicitated the design team responsible for the Long Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile.
As DRDO continues to celebrate its Foundation Day on January 1 each year, the 67th anniversary marked a significant milestone in the organization’s journey of technological excellence and national service.
