The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is partnering with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar to drive innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) surveillance and other projects. At a recent meeting between officials from DRDO and IIT Bhubaneswar, nine projects were handed over to the institute, with an additional seven projects in the process of being sanctioned with funding of 18 crore rupees. These projects will cover areas such as electronics warfare, AI-driven surveillance, power systems, and radar systems.
The collaboration between IIT Bhubaneswar and DRDO holds great promise for the advancement of research and development in defense applications, contributing to the vision of an “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” or a self-reliant India. This partnership will not only enhance the sustainability of defense research programs but also serve as a stepping stone towards nation-building. S R Samantaray, the head of the School of Electrical Sciences at IIT Bhubaneswar, expressed enthusiasm for this collaboration and its potential to address the emerging needs of defense applications.
Binay Das, the Director General of DRDO’s Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS) cluster, emphasized the importance of systematic work, proper review, and risk management in completing projects on time. He highlighted DRDO’s transformation from being technology chasers to technology enablers and trendsetters. Das stated, “The goal is now to move beyond attaining self-reliance to setting standards for the Indian armed forces, for others across the globe, to emulate.”
This collaboration signifies a significant shift in DRDO’s approach and demonstrates its commitment to driving innovation and setting global standards. In addition to the ongoing projects, the opportunity to establish a Centre of Excellence at IIT Bhubaneswar will play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.
By leveraging the research capabilities of IIT Bhubaneswar and the expertise of DRDO, India is poised to make great strides in utilizing AI for surveillance and other defense-related applications. As the country continues on its path towards technological advancement and self-sufficiency, partnerships like these will be vital in accelerating innovation and solidifying India’s position as a leader in defense research and development.
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