A series of transformative announcements including the release of the fifth Positive Indigenisation List, comprising 98 items, was made at ‘Swavlamban 2.0 today by the defence minister Rajnath Singh.
The fifth Positive Indigenisation List which was released during the plenary session of ‘Swavlamban 2.0,’ organized by the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) in New Delhi, includes items like highly intricate systems, sensors, weapons, and ammunition.
Fifth Positive Indigenisation List:
The highlight of the event was the release of the fifth Positive Indigenisation List by the Department of Military Affairs (DMA). This list comprises 98 items, including highly complex systems, sensors, weapons, and ammunition. All these items will be procured from indigenous sources, following the provisions outlined in the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020, with a phased timeline.
The fifth Positive Indigenisation List focuses on import substitution of components, major systems, platforms, weapon systems, sensors, and munitions. It includes items such as Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicles, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and more, intended to be developed domestically.
Challenges Launch:
Singh launched 76 challenges under the 10th Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC 10) & DISC 10 PRIME of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX). Additionally, he introduced two INDUS X challenges under the ‘INDUS-X Mutual Promotion of Advanced Collaborative Technologies,’ jointly finalized by iDEX and the United States Department of Defense (US DoD).
SBI NAVeCash Card:
A unique dual-chip debit card named ‘SBI NAVeCash Card’ was unveiled during the event. This card can be used both online and offline, even while at sea, offering convenience and security.
Focus on Innovation:
The minister stressed that India’s defence sector is currently experiencing a surge of innovation and praised iDEX for providing a platform for youth to innovate and contribute to strengthening the country’s defence ecosystem.
Promotion of ‘Aatmanirbharta’:
Singh highlighted the importance of ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in the defence sector and praised the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign initiated by the Prime Minister. And expressed confidence in the youth’s potential to drive the country’s development through innovation and knowledge.
Efforts to Connect Youth:
The minister stressed the need to connect the youth with the defence sector, particularly in research and development (R&D) and manufacturing. Also, provided suggestions to enhance the efficiency of iDEX.
Technology Assessment:
The minister called for a rigorous assessment of technology challenges, ensuring their relevance and avoiding duplication. And advocated for a mechanism involving DDP, DRDO, and the Armed Forces to conduct this analysis before introducing any technology or challenge.
Constant Evaluation:
He encouraged continuous evaluation of work and the need to set increasingly challenging goals for innovation.
Chief of the Naval Staff’s Remarks:
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar highlighted the success of previous challenges and expressed the Navy’s ambition to go beyond linear growth and adopt compounding technologies, which would result in multiple product developments.
These announcements reflect the government’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in the defence sector, fostering innovation, and strengthening the domestic defence industry. The aim is to promote ‘Aatmanirbharta’ and reduce reliance on imports, ultimately contributing to India’s economic growth and security.