DRDO NOT FOCUSSED ON ACHIEVING SELF-RELIANCE IN MILITARY HARDWARE

New Delhi

December 16, 2009
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is fully focussed towards enhancing self-reliance in military hardware. However, achieving self-reliance in this area is a joint responsibility that has to be met through national efforts by all Government agencies including Ministry of Defence, Defence Industries (both Public and private), Ordnance Factories and DRDO. As per provisions in Defence Procurement Procedure for “Make” Category, DRDO is concentrating only on development of strategic, complex and security sensitive systems. DRDO has developed a number of systems/products/technologies worth Rs. 30,000 crore which have already been inducted into Armed Forces, besides a large numbers are in the process of development production and induction.

DRDO has also been developing need based products for Armed Forces operating at high altitudes, deserts, rain forest, deep sea, etc. To increase their operational efficiency. These products are extremely useful in protecting our soldiers against adverse environmental conditions. Technologies, developed by DRDO, have been transferred to industries for their bulk production to meet the demands of Armed Forces.

There are no financial constraints in DRDO to attract trained talents. Sixth Central Pay Commission has also recommended a number of incentives for scientists which have been accepted and implemented by the Government. Attrition of scientists has reduced in the last two years in DRDO.

This information was given by Defence Minister AK Antony in written reply to in Jesudasu Seelam and Vijay Jawaharlal Darda Rajya Sabha today.