On December 1, 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation hosted an Industry Outreach Programme at its headquarters in New Delhi, reinforcing the government’s vision for ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) and a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (developed India). The event convened 220 scientists from 18 DRDO laboratories and 271 leaders from various defence industries, underlining a robust partnership between research and industry players for critical defence technologies.
Event Highlights and Key Participants
DRDO’s outreach covered laboratories across North India and sought active collaboration with industry partners. Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), served as Guest of Honour. A landmark moment of the event was the release of a new procedure for implementing DRDO’s Technology Transfer (ToT) Policy 2025, aimed at accelerating industry participation and innovation in defence manufacturing.
Open House Discussion and Policy Announcements
A central feature of the event was the open house discussion, where DRDO experts, the Secretary (Defence Production), and industry leaders addressed a wide range of queries, concerns, and suggestions. The panel resolved to tackle complex issues pertinent to indigenous defence production involving both public and private sectors. Additionally, the brainstorming session among DRDO corporate directorates and scientists reviewed key policies to enhance the outcomes of domestic research projects for the armed forces.
DRDO Leadership’s Vision
In his address, Dr. Kamat expressed strong confidence in the Indian industry’s growing capabilities. He predicted significant expansion of the indigenous defence ecosystem over the next five years, facilitated by maturing government policies. Opportunities for industry collaboration with DRDO were outlined, particularly for meeting the evolving technological needs of defence and security agencies. Shri Sanjeev Kumar emphasized complete in-house cycles from design to scaled manufacturing as the true path to self-reliance in defence production.
Future Direction and Industry Encouragement
Dr. Chandrika Kaushik, DG (Production Coordination & Services Interaction), highlighted ongoing initiatives for indigenisation and ecosystem development. She noted India’s transformation from a defence importer to an emerging net exporter, advocating for continuous R&D and deeper ties between industry and DRDO for sustained progress in indigenous innovation.
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Source: PIB
