Government Outlines Reforms to Overhaul DRDO Operations: Details Shared in Rajya Sabha

The Indian government recently announced that a committee has recommended significant reforms to transform the functioning of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This revelation came during a session in the Rajya Sabha, where Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth responded to queries regarding the future of DRDO's operations.

Sanjay Seth confirmed that the committee, led by Dr. Vijaya Raghavan, has proposed various reforms aimed at overhauling the DRDO. This announcement was part of a written response to questions about the government's plans to completely revamp the organization, which plays a crucial role in India's defense research and development.

The committee's recommendations are seen as a critical step towards modernizing the DRDO, ensuring it remains at the forefront of technological innovation and defense capabilities. The proposed reforms are expected to address several operational inefficiencies and enhance the overall effectiveness of the organization.

One of the key aspects discussed was the budget allocation for DRDO's various research projects. Minister Seth clarified that the expenses for these projects are covered by the regular budget of the DRDO, which is subject to standard increases. This ensures that the organization has the necessary financial resources to pursue its ambitious research and development goals.

In addition to budgetary considerations, there was also a focus on enhancing the research staff capacity at DRDO. Minister Seth confirmed that there are plans to increase the number of research staff members based on the specific requirements of different projects. This move is aimed at bolstering the organization's capacity to undertake cutting-edge research and development activities.

Furthermore, the government has formulated an Integrated Capability Development Plan to address the current and future security needs of the armed forces. This plan is developed by the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. It is reviewed annually as part of a two-yearly roll-over Annual Acquisition Plan, ensuring that the DRDO's efforts remain aligned with the evolving security landscape.

These reforms and plans are part of the government's broader strategy to enhance the capabilities of India's defense sector. By overhauling the DRDO and ensuring it has the necessary resources and staff, the government aims to strengthen the nation's defense infrastructure and maintain a competitive edge in defense technology.

The reforms proposed by the committee led by Dr. Vijaya Raghavan represent a significant step forward in this direction. As the DRDO continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges, these changes are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping its future trajectory and ensuring it remains a cornerstone of India's defense research and development efforts.