DRDO Chief Samir V Kamat Gets Second One-Year Extension, to Serve Till May 2026

The Central Government has granted a second one-year extension to Dr. Samir V Kamat, the chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), allowing him to continue in his role until May 31, 2026. This extension ensures continuity at the top of India’s premier defence research agency during a period of rapid technological advancement and growing strategic needs.

Dr. Kamat, a distinguished scientist known for his contributions to defence technology, was first appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D) and DRDO Chairman on August 25, 2022. He was previously granted a one-year extension in May 2024, which was set to expire this month.

The latest decision, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, invokes Fundamental Rule 56(d), which empowers the government to extend the service of officials in key roles in the public interest. This move reflects the government’s confidence in Dr. Kamat’s leadership and vision for India’s defence innovation ecosystem.

Under his leadership, DRDO has been actively working on a range of indigenous technologies including missile systems, advanced radars, next-generation combat platforms, and electronic warfare systems. His tenure has also seen efforts to strengthen the partnership between DRDO and Indian defence startups, industries, and academia to push the boundaries of research and development.

The continuation of Dr. Kamat’s service is seen as a positive step for maintaining momentum on key defence programs and ensuring strategic consistency in DRDO’s roadmap as India pursues self-reliance in defence manufacturing.