In a significant move towards fostering innovation in defence technologies, India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, introduced the ADITI (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) scheme on March 4, 2024. This scheme, unveiled at DefConnect 2024 in New Delhi, is poised to revolutionize the landscape of defence technology development in the country.
ADITI Scheme Overview:
| Scheme Name | ADITI (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) Scheme |
| Launched on | March 04th, 2024 |
| Announced by | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh |
| Duration | 2023-24 to 2025-26 |
| Budget | ₹750 crore |
| Framework | Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministries of Defence |
| Aim | To Promote innovations in critical and strategic Defence technologies |
| Financial aid | Up to ₹25 crore |
| Last Date to Apply | April 4th, 2024 |
| Official Website | https://idex.gov.in/disc-category/41 |
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The ADITI scheme, an integral part of the broader iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) initiative, operates under the purview of the Defence Innovation Organization (DIO) within the Department of Defence Production (DDP).
With a duration spanning from 2023-24 to 2025-26 and a substantial budget allocation of Rs 750 crore, the scheme aims to propel the development and innovation of critical defence technologies.
Youth innovators and startups meeting eligibility criteria stand to receive financial support of up to Rs 25 crore for research and development endeavours targeting strategic defence solutions.
Key Highlights of the ADITI Scheme:
- The scheme targets the development of 30 essential defence technologies crucial for national security, facilitated by a “Technology Watch Tool” that identifies the armed forces’ requirements.
- In its inaugural phase, ADITI addresses 17 challenges across various branches of Indian defence agencies, with problem statements distributed among entities such as the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defence Space Agency.
- Government assistance under iDEX is expanded from Rs 1.5 crore to Rs 10 crore to empower young innovators, facilitating the transformation of ideas into tangible technologies.
- Financial aid of up to Rs 25 crore is earmarked for the development of 50% of the product, providing substantial support for innovators to realize their projects.
- The scheme aligns to foster self-reliance in defence production, promoting indigenous technologies and talents, and positioning India as a key player in global defence technology markets.
ADITI Scheme Eligibility Criteria:
To participate in the ADITI scheme, startups must be recognized by the DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) and comply with the Companies Act 1956/2013.
Individual innovators are also eligible, provided they register as a Startup/MSME post-selection.
ADITI Scheme Application Process:
- Interested parties can apply for the ADITI scheme by April 4, 2024, through the official iDEX website at https://idex.gov.in/disc-category/41.
- The application entails filling out the necessary details and uploading a pitch deck outlining the proposed innovation.
- Following a review by DIO-iDEX and due diligence, applicants will receive confirmation of acceptance.
The ADITI Scheme heralds a new era of innovation and self-sufficiency in India’s defence technology sector. By nurturing talent, fostering collaboration, and providing substantial financial support, the scheme paves the way for the development of cutting-edge technologies vital for national security. As India advances towards its vision of self-reliance and global leadership in defence technologies, ADITI stands as a beacon of opportunity for innovators to contribute to the nation’s strategic goals.
