At the DefConnect 4.0 event held at the Manekshaw Centre, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 7 unveiled the second edition of Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI 2.0) and the 12th edition of Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC 12). These initiatives aim to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within India’s defence sector.

ADITI 2.0 features 19 challenges targeting advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Technology, military communication, anti-drone systems, and adaptive camouflage. Winners will be eligible for grants up to Rs 25 crore, emphasizing critical technological areas essential for bolstering India’s defence capabilities.

Meanwhile, DISC 12 introduces 41 challenges across domains such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and networking, with grants reaching up to Rs 1.5 crore. A notable addition is the Medical Innovations and Research Advancement (MIRA) initiative, which includes nine challenges aimed at enhancing medical technologies for the Armed Forces.

In his address, Singh emphasized the importance of innovation in strengthening India’s defence ecosystem, highlighting that the iDEX initiative has attracted over 9,000 applications and collaborated with more than 450 start-ups and MSMEs. He reported that 26 products have been developed under iDEX, leading to procurement orders exceeding Rs 1,000 crore.

Singh urged the private sector to transition from imitative to innovative technologies, stressing the need for forward-thinking solutions that anticipate future threats. He also noted the collaboration with SIDBI, which will allocate Rs 50 crore to support incubators that aid iDEX winners.

The event was attended by senior military officials, industry leaders, and young innovators, who showcased cutting-edge solutions in munitions, surveillance, and space technologies. Singh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing private sector involvement in defence, crucial for achieving self-reliance.