Opinion: Why iDEX, Modi Govt Initiative To Boost Defence Innovation, Is Critical For ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’

Launched in 2018, the Innovations for Defence Excellence or iDEX has already begun to yield positive results, contributing to the advancement of defence systems. 

File image of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visiting an exhibition at the DefConnect 2024 event, organised by Innovations for Defence Excellence-Defence Innovation Organisation.

Source : PTI

The confinement of defence research and development within government-controlled laboratories has proven to be a costly approach for India. The culture of conducting defence research under stringent secrecy, coupled with the marginalisation of private-sector defence entrepreneurs, has hindered the nation from harnessing the potential of its young and innovative technical talent. Despite the existence of over 40 defence research laboratories under the Defence Research and Development Organisation