Source: The Hindu

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context:

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has sanctioned seven new projects for the private sector under the Technology Development Fund scheme.
• It is part of efforts to nurture industries, especially Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and start-ups.

Details:

About the Technology Development Fund scheme

It is an innovative initiative by India's Ministry of Defence (MoD), executed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The TDF Scheme forms an integral part of the ’Make in India’ initiative, aiming to stand in indigenization in defence and aerospace sectors by nurturing innovation and encouraging participation from Indian start-ups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Objectives

• Promoting Indigenous Technology Development: Supporting the development of cutting-edge technologies to meet the needs of the Indian Armed Forces.
• Empowering MSMEs and Startups: Encouraging the participation of MSMEs and start-ups in the defence sector to enhance their capabilities and competitiveness.
• Reducing Import Dependence: Mitigating reliance on foreign technology by developing self-sufficiency in critical defence and aerospace technologies.

Key Features

Funding and Support

• Financial Assistance: The TDF scheme provides financial assistance of up to 90.
• Targeted Beneficiaries: The scheme largely targets Indian start-ups and MSMEs to produce a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the defence sector.

Focus Areas

• Innovative Technologies: Projects involving innovative and disruptive technologies, such as green propulsion systems, advanced materials, autonomous systems, and cyber technologies, are prioritized.
• Environmental Sustainability: Emphasis on developing non-toxic, environment-friendly solutions for defense applications, demonstrated by projects like the green propulsion system.

Project Implementation

• Guidance and Mentoring: DRDO provides comprehensive guidance and mentorship to the development agencies to ensure successful project execution.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Projects are closely monitored by DRDO to assess progress and ensure alignment with the strategic objectives of the Indian defense sector.

Success Stories

Green Propulsion System

• One of the famous projects under the TDF Scheme is the development of a green propulsion system by Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd, a Bengaluru-based start-up. This system, designed for microsatellites, has successfully demonstrated in-orbit functionality.

Key achievements of the project include: 

• Non-Toxic Propellant: Development of an indigenously-created, non-toxic propellant that is safe and environmentally friendly.
• Validated Performance: The propulsion system’s performance has been validated through telemetry data from the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) at ISRO’s Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC), exceeding all performance parameters.
• Technological Milestones: Demonstration of pulsed mode and steady-state firing in vacuum conditions, passivation of residual propellant in outer space, and establishment of filling procedures under TDF guidelines.

DRDO Anti-Drone

• Technology Another significant development under the TDF is the anti-drone technology, which has been handed over to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and private firms, showcasing the commercial viability and strategic importance of the innovations supported by the TDF.

Global Competitiveness

• By reducing dependency on foreign technologies and promoting Indigenous development, the TDF Scheme aims to improve the global competitiveness of Indian defence products and solutions, paving the way for export opportunities and international collaborations.

 

READ ABOUT IN DETAIL ABOUT THE SCHEME- https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/technology-development-fund-scheme#:~:text=Technology%20Development%20Fund%20(TDF)%20is,entire%20cost%20of%20the%20project.

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/drdo-approves-seven-technologies-for-development-by-private-sector/article68393603.ece

PRACTICE QUESTION Discuss the challenges faced in implementing the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme and suggest measures to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the goal of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in defense.