MoD Engages 50 MSMEs & Start-ups to Boost Defence Innovation

27 Mar 2025 CW Team

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) held extensive discussions with over 50 start-ups and MSMEs to address key challenges, explore opportunities, and accelerate innovation in the defence sector. Chaired by Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar, the brainstorming sessions took place at South Block on March 24 and 25.

Most participating ventures are engaged with the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative. Discussions covered critical and emerging technologies, including space technologies, quantum computing, electronic warfare, drones, artificial intelligence, radar systems, cybersecurity, and advanced materials, highlighting their potential applications in both defence and civilian sectors.

Secretary Sanjeev Kumar emphasised that these interactions will help refine policies and procedures to encourage broader participation from start-ups working in deep tech. He thanked participants for their insights, stating that their contributions would shape future initiatives to strengthen India's defence innovation ecosystem.

(PIB)

Infrastructure Urban

06 Apr 2026

InsideFPV Delivers ₹10 Crore Kamikaze Drone Order Under MoD’s EPR Route

InsideFPV, a Surat-based drone technology manufacturer, has successfully executed a ₹10 crore defence contract to supply indigenous kamikaze drones under the Ministry of Defence’s Emergency Procurement Route (EPR). The company completed the delivery of hundreds of FPV kamikaze drone platforms within a rapid two-month timeframe, highlighting its ability to meet urgent military procurement timelines.The supply orders were fulfilled under the emergency procurement mechanism, which is aimed at fast-tracking acquisitions for immediate operational needs. InsideFPV’s quick execution reflects it..

Vedanta Resources Secures Fitch Upgrade to ‘BB-’, Best Rating Since 2015

Vedanta Resources Limited (VRL), a global player in metals, oil & gas, critical minerals, power and technology, has received a credit rating upgrade from Fitch Ratings, marking its strongest bond rating in over a decade.Fitch has raised Vedanta Resources’ Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to ‘BB-’ from ‘B+’, while maintaining a Stable Outlook. The agency also upgraded VRL’s senior unsecured rating, along with the ratings of US dollar-denominated bonds issued by Vedanta Resources Finance II Plc and guaranteed by VRL, to ‘BB-’.The upgrade represents Vedan..

NAREDCO NextGen NCR Chapter Launched

The NAREDCO NextGen NCR Chapter was recently launched at Excelerate 2026 in Mumbai, marking a key step towards integrating emerging real estate leaders from the National Capital Region with the national platform. The initiative aims to promote sustainable and responsible urban development through collaboration and knowledge exchange.The event brought together young developers, entrepreneurs, and professionals from across NCR, including Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Bhiwadi, and Meerut. Discussions focused on urban development, finance, sustainability, innovation, and policy, emphasisi..