DRDO Directors Conclave 2024 kicks off with focus on technology leadership and reforms

The DRDO Directors Conclave 2024 began at the Armament Research & Development Establishment in Pune on Friday, marking a significant annual meeting for the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).

Inaugurated by Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defense Research and Development and Chairman, DRDO, the event highlighted the importance of technological leadership in the rapidly changing global landscape.

Dr Kamat asked DRDO to embrace a strategy of reform, performance and transformation to realize the vision of a Bharat Aatmanirbhar (autonomous) and Viksit (developed) as outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Themed ‘Transforming DRDO for Redefined Defense R&D’, the conclave will include sessions aimed at showcasing the ongoing and upcoming reforms within DRDO, enhancing the effectiveness of the organisation. The discussions will focus on building a robust research and development ecosystem by fostering collaboration with industry and academia, thereby positioning India as a leader in defense technology.

Participants will engage in various brainstorming sessions and plenary discussions to enhance defense research and development capabilities. The conclave is scheduled to conclude with a collaborative effort to outline actionable ideas and recommendations for future progress. Key officials from DRDO were present, including CEOs from various technology and corporate groups, laboratory directors and financial advisors.