In a significant push toward self-reliance in defence technology, the Indian Air Force (IAF) hosted a seminar at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru on February 11, bringing together military leaders, industry experts, and researchers. Themed Navachar Utkrishtam Bhavisyam (Innovation is the Path to a Better Future), the event served as a platform to discuss the future of indigenous defence innovation and how India can reduce its dependence on foreign technology.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, addressing the gathering alongside the Chief of the Air Staff, underscored the importance of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) as more than just a policy—it is a transformative vision that seeks to strengthen India’s defence capabilities from within. He highlighted the IAF’s proactive role in supporting domestic defence manufacturing, ensuring that the Armed Forces maintain an operational edge while securing long-term maintenance and logistical support.
Over the past few years, the IAF has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at fostering innovation within India’s defence ecosystem. Notably, the force has launched 78 projects under the iDEX scheme, 48 projects under the MAKE initiative, and 37 under the Technology Development Fund (TDF), all of which are at various stages of development. These efforts reflect a steady march toward self-sufficiency, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of military advancements.
Shri Sanjay Seth called on stakeholders across the defence industry—including large firms, MSMEs, and startups—to collaborate with the Armed Forces in equipping them with cutting-edge tools to counter evolving security threats. He acknowledged the agility and creativity of small and medium enterprises, urging them to take bold steps into defence production, as their contributions are vital to building a strong, secure, and self-reliant India.
As part of the seminar, the Raksha Rajya Mantri released a key publication, IAF Compendium of Challenges & Opportunities for Indian Industry, which outlines the pressing challenges in the defence sector while highlighting opportunities for innovation. He also launched VAYU VITT, a digital portal designed by the IAF to facilitate supply orders, certification, and payments between the Air Force and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This initiative is expected to enhance transparency, efficiency, and ease of operations within the defence procurement process.
Recognizing excellence in innovation, Shri Sanjay Seth announced the winners of the Mehar Baba-II competition, which encouraged the development of next-generation defence technologies. He also launched the Mehar Baba-III challenge, further motivating Indian innovators to push boundaries in aerospace and defence advancements.
The seminar featured a panel discussion on Manned-Unmanned Teaming – From Concept to Targeting, where leading scientists, industrialists, and certification agencies deliberated on how India’s industry can drive indigenous solutions for next-generation defence needs. The discussion underscored the significance of leveraging homegrown expertise to develop cutting-edge technologies that will shape the future of India’s military preparedness.
Aero India 2025 continues to be a beacon of innovation and collaboration, bringing together visionaries and experts committed to strengthening India’s defence sector. The seminar reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to build a self-sustaining defence ecosystem—one that not only ensures national security but also empowers Indian industry to take its rightful place on the global stage.
