In an effort to achieve self-reliance in Defence manufacturing, the Navy has proposed to develop and induct at least 75 new technologies or products in the coming year. It will be part of the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ to celebrate the 75th year of independence.
A Memorandum of Understanding(MOU) has been signed between the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) and the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) to work on a collaborative project named SPRINT(Supporting Pole-Vaulting in Research and Development through iDEX, NIIO and TDAC), navy officials said here on Monday. The Navy in conjunction with the DIO will unveil the problem statements for Indian Industries as part of iDEX(SPRINT) during the NIIO Seminar ‘Swavlamban 2022’ scheduled on July 18-19 at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
The purpose of the Seminar is to engage the Indian Industry and Academia towards achieving ‘Self-reliance in Defence Sector.’ Giving details about the NIIO, they said the Defence Acquisition Policy (DAP 2020) envisages creation of ‘Innovation and Indigenisation Organisations (IIOs)’ within Service Headquarters. Accordingly, the NIIO was launched on August 13, 2020 by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The NIIO is a three tiered mechanism headed by Vice Chief of Naval Staff. At apex level, the Naval Technology Acceleration Council (NTAC) has been constituted to bring together twin aspects of innovation and indigenisation and accelerate induction of disruptive combat technology into Navy so as to enhance war fighting capabilities.
The NTAC meets every six months and gives apex level directives. It consists of ex-officio members as well as nominated members of technical expertise and standing, both from within Navy and civilians, scientists and industry.
The NIIO Working Group meets every two months and has been set-up for seamless interactions across the Navy and with the defence ministry as envisaged in the DAP.
A dedicated organisation focused on innovation named the Technology Development Acceleration Cell(TDAC) has also been created within the NIIO. Interacting with the academia and the industry, in addition to channeling in-house innovations by naval personnel is a part of the charter of duties of the TDAC.
