The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its Defence Technology and Test Centre (DTTC) in Lucknow, organised a significant conclave on September 6, 2025, at its Amausi campus. The event aimed to foster collaboration with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups to accelerate Defence Research & Development (R&D) and production capabilities, contributing to the growth of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor.
More than 100 participants, including representatives from MSMEs, start-ups, and Laghu Udhyog Bharti, engaged in in-depth discussions focusing on key aspects such as skill development, funding for R&D, technical consultancy, and technology development and transfer by DRDO.
DRDO Chairman Highlights Opportunities for MSMEs
In his inaugural speech, the DRDO Chairman described the DTTC as the visionary initiative of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, emphasizing that the centre is now delivering tangible benefits to the defence industry. He encouraged MSMEs to actively participate in Defence R&D, underscoring the availability of various cutting-edge technologies and industry-focused policies tailored for MSMEs.
The Chairman reiterated DRDO’s commitment to supporting MSMEs in making India an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), aligned with the goal of building a Viksit Bharat (developed India) by 2047.
Raksha Mantri Praises MSMEs’ Role in National Vision
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh commended DRDO and MSMEs for successfully organising the conclave. He lauded the MSMEs’ crucial contributions towards realizing the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, highlighting their role as key drivers in strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities.
Top DRDO Officials Attend the Event
The conclave was graced by several dignitaries from DRDO, including–
- Dr RV Hara Prasad, Director General (Naval Systems & Materials)
- Dr LC Mangal, Director General (Technology Management)
- Dr Mayank Dwivedi, Director General (Human Resources)
Their presence underscored the importance of the conclave in bridging technology and industry collaborations essential for the defence ecosystem.
