Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has launched the Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme to promote innovations in critical and strategic defence technologies. The scheme, unveiled during DefConnect 2024 in New Delhi on March 4, 2024, aims to provide start-ups with grant-in-aid of up to Rs 25 crore for research, development, and innovation in defence technology.
Under the ADITI scheme, which falls under the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) framework of the Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence, about Rs 750 crore has been allocated for the period 2023-24 to 2025-26. The scheme targets the development of approximately 30 deep-tech critical and strategic technologies, with a focus on bridging the gap between the expectations of modern Armed Forces and the capabilities of the defence innovation ecosystem.
In his address at the launch event, Rajnath Singh highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering innovation among the youth. He emphasized the importance of achieving a technological edge to propel India towards becoming a developed nation and underscored the need to transform the country into a knowledge society.
The event also marked the unveiling of the 11th edition of Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC), which introduced 22 problem statements aimed at addressing critical defence challenges. The DISC initiative invites innovators to propose solutions that can enhance the country’s defence capabilities and contribute to national security.
Rajnath Singh stressed the significance of self-reliance in defence production, stating that without it, India cannot make independent decisions on global issues in line with its national interests. He highlighted the government’s efforts to promote domestic manufacturing and boost the economy, including earmarking 75% of the defence capital procurement budget for Indian companies.
As part of DefConnect 2024, a technology showcase was organized by iDEX-Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), featuring start-ups revolutionizing key areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Cybersecurity.