In News:

• DefConnect 4.0 was inaugurated by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 7, 2024, at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantonment.
• Organizer: Hosted by Innovations for Defence Excellence - Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO) under the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence.

Purpose and Focus

• Advancing Indigenous Innovation: Aims to enhance India’s defense ecosystem by promoting self-reliant defense technologies.
• Participants: Involves Armed Forces, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), start-ups, MSMEs, academia, incubators, investors, and policymakers.

Technology Showcase

• Exhibitions: iDEX innovators showcased cutting-edge technologies, products, and capabilities.
• Collaboration and Dialogue: Encourages partnerships and discussions to drive defense innovation and long-term collaborations.

Special Sessions

• Budget Insights: Focused on key takeaways from recent budget announcements impacting the defense innovation ecosystem.
• Semiconductor Domain: Highlighted initiatives and opportunities within the semiconductor sector.

Path Forward: Vision for 2047

• Viksit Bharat Goal: Aligns with India’s vision of becoming a global leader in defense innovation by 2047.
• Government Initiatives: Supports local talent and indigenous solutions through programs like iDEX.

iDEX Impact

• Defence India Start-up Challenges: 11 editions launched, garnering over 9,000 applications.
• Collaborations: Engages with over 450 start-ups/MSMEs on significant defense projects.
• Contribution to Self-Reliance: Supports the goal of achieving self-reliance in the defense and aerospace sectors.