Army Chief Manoj Pande Advocates Leveraging MSMEs and Startups for Atmanirbharta

Pune, February 26: General Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), emphasized the Indian Army's focus on leveraging Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the startup ecosystem to achieve self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) in the defense sector. During his visit to the Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo 2024 held at the International Exhibition Convention Centre in Moshi, General Pande highlighted the significance of indigenous capabilities and innovations showcased by MSMEs, private companies, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratories, and Defence Public Sector Unit (DPSU) setups.

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Maharashtra's Contribution to India's Economy and Defense Manufacturing

General Pande commended Maharashtra for its substantial contributions to the nation's economy, industrial growth, exports, and attractiveness for foreign direct investment (FDI). He acknowledged Maharashtra as the first state in India to formulate a Defence Manufacturing Policy after private investment was permitted in the defense sector. The state's recognition of aerospace and defense manufacturing as a thrust sector in the Package Scheme of Incentives has resulted in Maharashtra contributing over 20% of the country's output in aircraft, ships, and boats, and 30% of the national output in weapons and ammunition.

Economic Growth and Sustainable Development

General Pande highlighted India's economic growth, characterized by improved consumer affluence, enhanced living standards, higher literacy rates, and rising aspirations among citizens. He lauded the efforts of government agencies and the armed forces in implementing policy reforms, skilling initiatives, infrastructure investments, and leveraging digital potential. These initiatives, coupled with frontline entrepreneurship, signify the commitment to sustainable development and the promise of becoming a reliable supply chain stakeholder.

Army's Focus on MSMEs and Startups for Capability Development

General Pande reiterated the Army's focus on collaborating with both MSMEs and the startup ecosystem as part of the Atmanirbharta pursuit. He emphasized the mandate for all projects under the Innovations in Defence Excellence (iDEX) procurement to be progressed through startups. Currently, 55 Army projects worth Rs 400 crore are being pursued under the iDEX route, involving a total of 65 startups. Four contracts worth Rs 70 crore have been concluded for the procurement of equipment in limited quantities for field exploitation.

The COAS also highlighted the iDEX route's adherence to the Spiral Mode of development for indigenous technology and platforms. This approach enables concurrent development of equipment based on user recommendations, as limited quantity exploitation in field conditions facilitates ongoing improvements.

Army's In-House Innovations and Technology Transfer

General Pande mentioned the Indian Army's in-house Ideas & Innovation initiative, showcasing two innovations and the successful technology transfer to the industry for mass production. These innovations include Vidyut Rakshak, an Internet of Things (IoT)-based generator protection system, and a biomedical device. The Army's commitment to promoting innovation also extends to pursuing Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) for products developed in collaboration with the industry. To date, 66 IPRs have been filed by the Army, resulting in the granting of 13 patents, five copyrights, and five design registrations.

Display of Indigenous Equipment and Systems

During the expo, the Army showcased its indigenous equipment and systems, including the Tank T-90, BMP Mk-II, Soltam Gun, Dhanush Howitzer, K-9 Vajra, Pinaka Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher, Sarvatra Bridge System, Schilka Gun and Fly Catcher Radar of Army Air Defence, Tavor, Sig Sauer & M4 Assault Rifles, Ak-47, Sniper Rifles, and more.

Conclusion

General Manoj Pande's visit to the Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo 2024 underscored the Indian Army's commitment to fostering self-reliance through collaboration with MSMEs and startups. By leveraging indigenous capabilities and promoting innovation, the Army aims to meet its capability development requirements and contribute to the nation's defense preparedness.