DRDO Hosts Conclave to Strengthen MSMEs in UP Defence Corridor
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) organised a conclave on 6 September 2025 through its Defence Technology and Test Centre (DTTC) in Lucknow. Held at the Amausi Campus, the event aimed to engage Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups in defence research, development, and production.
The initiative supports the broader goal of strengthening the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor. Over 100 participants attended, including representatives from MSMEs, start-ups, and members of Laghu Udhyog Bharti. Discussions centred on skill development, R&D funding, technical consultancy, and DRDO’s support in technology development and transfer.
MSMEs Key to Aatmanirbhar Bharat Vision
In his inaugural address, the DRDO Chairman highlighted that DTTC was envisioned by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and is now delivering tangible benefits for industries. He encouraged MSMEs to actively engage in defence innovation, noting that this is a timely opportunity to become valuable contributors to India’s self-reliance goals.
The Chairman assured full support from DRDO to MSMEs, reinforcing the government’s vision of achieving Aatmanirbhar Bharat and progressing towards a developed nation—Viksit Bharat—by 2047.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh also praised DRDO and MSMEs for their efforts, underlining the crucial role that smaller enterprises play in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a self-reliant India.
Senior DRDO Officials Join the Dialogue
The conclave was attended by several senior DRDO dignitaries. These included Dr RV Hara Prasad, Director General of Naval Systems & Materials; Dr LC Mangal, Director General of Technology Management; and Dr Mayank Dwivedi, Director General of Human Resources.
Their presence and insights further emphasised the importance of collaboration between the defence sector and MSMEs for advancing India’s technological capabilities and defence preparedness.