BEML Limited (BEML) has invited startups and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to co-create next-generation defence solutions under the DRISHTI Challenges initiative. The company published seven DRISHTI Challenge problem statements on its official website and positioned the move as part of a broader effort to accelerate indigenous capability development. The announcement was timed with the National Defence Industries Conclave organised by the Department of Defence Production under the Ministry of Defence at the Manekshaw Centre on 19 and 20 March 2026.

The initiative aims to foster innovation-led partnerships that combine industry experience with emerging technology talent to deliver scalable solutions for defence manufacturing and operations. BEML said the challenges are intended to promote technology integration, strengthen public–private collaboration and support self-reliance in defence production. The company framed the call as a practical step towards building interoperable systems and supply chains within the domestic defence ecosystem.

Startups and MSMEs are invited to submit proposals addressing the published problem statements and to engage with BEML's research and engineering teams on prototype development. Applications will be accepted until five pm on four May 2026 and selected participants are expected to enter collaborative development and testing phases. The scheme provides an avenue for innovators to access domain expertise, testing infrastructure and potential manufacturing partnerships.

By opening its innovation ecosystem, BEML reiterated its commitment to the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and signalled a sustained strategy to harness partnerships for long-term capability building. The initiative is likely to accelerate adoption of new technologies across maintenance, manufacturing and systems integration within defence platforms. Observers said the approach could deepen the defence industrial base and create pathways for smaller firms to scale solutions for national security requirements.