The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) kicked off a two-day National Symposium and Industry Meet on ‘Emerging Technologies in Infrastructure Development’ with an inauguration ceremony graced by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane.
The event, held in New Delhi, witnessed participation from key stakeholders including the Armed Forces, academia, industry, and DRDO.
The symposium aims to facilitate dialogue, knowledge exchange, and exploration of innovative approaches to tackle challenges and capitalize on opportunities presented by emerging technologies in infrastructure development, aligning with the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
In his address, Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane underscored the imperative of achieving self-reliance across all sectors to confront future challenges effectively. He emphasized that self-reliance not only ensures national security but also creates ample employment opportunities for India's young population.
Highlighting the significance of ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence, Shri Aramane stressed the need for India to chart its own course in the geopolitical landscape, emphasizing that self-reliance is paramount for safeguarding national interests and achieving developmental milestones by 2047.
Drawing attention to the government's focus on bolstering infrastructure along the borders, the Defence Secretary urged infrastructure firms to contribute to strengthening the apparatus. He called upon the private sector to complement the efforts of the Armed Forces by enhancing infrastructure in border areas, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and academia.
Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, highlighted the pivotal role of infrastructure in national development, especially in maintaining strategic deterrence. He emphasized the need to integrate the latest technologies into technical infrastructure to keep pace with evolving trends.
Shri Purushottam Bej, Director General, Resource & Management, noted the significance of the symposium in igniting dialogue among stakeholders and fostering collaboration to realize the government's vision for infrastructure development.
The event featured an industry-partner exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technologies and products, along with a student competition from premier engineering institutions. Additionally, a symposium souvenir and Research Establishment Work Procedure 2024 were released during the event, marking significant milestones in the field of infrastructure development.
With over 500 delegates and five technical sessions, the symposium promises to be a catalyst for driving innovation and collaboration in infrastructure development, paving the way for a brighter future for the country's infrastructure landscape.