Staff Reporter / NEW DELHI
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today said that Directors Conference of Defence Research and Development Organization DRDO has empowered the country with cutting edge technology. He said, despite various restrictions, limited indigenous capabilities and lack of time, DRDO has succeeded in developing variety of systems, products and technologies needed to enhance the forces.
Addressing Directors Conference of DRDO, Mr. Singh said, Dr. A P J Abul Kalam’s contribution to research and missile development programme brought India to list of countries known for their indigenous capabilities. .
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval said, niche technologies make India more secure. He said, technology has to be need-based and we along with our defence services and intelligence agencies have to make a hard assessment of our needs which will give us an edge over our adversaries. Mr. Doval said, armies that were better equipped with higher technologies always called the shots and decided the destiny of mankind.
Army Chief General Bipin Rawat complimented DRDO for making strides in ensuring that requirements of the services are met through home-grown solutions. General Rawat expressed confidence that we will fight and win the next war through indigenized weapons systems and equipment. General Rawat said, while looking at systems for future warfare, we have to start looking at development of cyber-space, laser, electronic and robotic technologies and artificial intelligence.
Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh suggested that impetus has to be on niche technology and we must take a closer look at models such as Defence Advance Research Project Agency, DARPA in the US. Admiral Singh said, small time innovators should be encouraged. Defence Minister also gave away Kalam Dare to Dream Award to a young innovators and startups for solving scientific challenges.