India Launches ADITI 2.0 and DISC 12 for Defence Innovation

India has launched ADITI 2.0 and DISC 12 initiatives to boost defence innovation. ADITI 2.0 focuses on 19 advanced technology challenges, including AI, quantum technology, military communication, and anti-drone systems.

ADITI 2.0 and DISC 12 Initiatives

Launched by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at DefConnect 4.0 in Delhi

ADITI 2.0 (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX):

- 19 technology challenges in advanced areas
- Covers AI, Quantum Technology, military communication, anti-drone systems
- Grants up to ₹25 crore for successful solutions

DISC 12 (12th Defence India Start-up Challenge):

- 41 new technology challenges
- Focus on UAVs, AI, Networking, and Communication
- Includes Medical Innovations and Research Advancement (MIRA) initiative
- Grants up to ₹1.50 crore for top ideas

iDEX and Government Support for Defence Innovation

iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) initiative:

- Collaborates with Atal Innovation Mission
- Supports start-ups and MSMEs in developing defence technologies
- Reviewed over 9,000 applications, partnered with 450+ companies
- 26 products developed, procurement orders worth ₹1,000 crore placed

SIDBI iDEX Partner Incubator Fund:

- ₹50 crore allocated to 10 leading partner incubators
- Supports iDEX winners in advancing critical defence technologies

Government commitment to private sector involvement:

- Increased focus on private sector participation since 2014
- Aim to create new technologies and solutions for military needs

Objectives and Focus Areas

Shift from imitative to innovative technologies
Encourage private sector to develop future-ready solutions

Key technology domains:

- Artificial Intelligence
- Quantum Technology
- Military communication systems
- Anti-drone technology
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
- Medical technologies for Armed Forces
Emphasis on self-reliance ('Aatmanirbharta') in defence
Promoting synergy between public and private sectors

Achievements and Recognition

iDEX achievements:

- Over 9,000 applications received
- Collaboration with 450+ start-ups and MSMEs
- 26 products developed with procurement orders of ₹1,000+ crore
- Acceptance of Necessity and Request for Proposal worth ₹2,380+ crore for 37 products
ADITI initiative focusing on 30+ critical and strategic technologies
Felicitation of ADITI 1.0 winners at DefConnect 4.0

Showcase of innovations by leading iDEX winners:

- Munition Systems
- Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance
- Communication Systems
- Space Technologies

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