India Launches ADITI 2.0 and DISC 12 for Defence Innovation

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