NEWSLETTER

A Monthly Bulletin of Defence Research and Development Organisation

https://www.drdo.gov.in/newsletter ISSN: 0971-4391

ISSN: 0971-4391 FEBRUARY 2025 | VOLUME 45 | ISSUE 02

ENGAGING WITH EXCELLENCE: RAKSHA MANTRI'S

INTERACTION WITH DRDO OFFICIALS

DRDO'S TECHNOLOGICAL SPLENDOUR

AT REPUBLIC DAY 2025
 DRDO NEWSLETTER

Editor-in-Chief: Ms Kiran Chauhan 45th Year of Publication

Associate Editor-in-Chief: Sudhanshu Bhushan
FEBRUARY 2025 | VOLUME 45 | ISSUE 02
Editor: Dipti Arora
Design & Pre-press: Raj Kumar
Printing: Rajesh Kr Singh
Distribution: Pratyaksh Sharma

LABORATORY CORRESPONDENTS
Ahmednagar : Shri RA Shaikh, Vehicle Research and Development Establishment (VRDE)
Ambernath : Dr Ganesh S Dhole, Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL)
Balasore : Shri PN Panda, Integrated Test Range (ITR)
Shri Ratnakar S Mohapatra, Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE)
Bengaluru : Shri Satpal Singh Tomar, Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE)
Smt MR Bhuvaneswari, Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS)
Smt Faheema AGJ, Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (CAIR)
Dr Josephine Nirmala M, Combat Aircraft Systems Development & Integration Centre (CASDIC)
Dr Sanchita Sil & Dr Sudhir S Kamble, Defence Bioengineering & Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL)
Dr V Senthil, Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE)
Smt Saima Bashir, Electronics & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE)
Ms Mita Jana, Microwave Tube Research & Development Centre (MTRDC)
Chandigarh : Dr Pal Dinesh Kumar, Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL)
: Dr Anuja Kumari, Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment (DGRE)
Chennai : Shri K Anbazhagan, Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE)
Dehradun : Shri DP Triapthi, Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory (DEAL)
Shri JP Singh, Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE)
Delhi : Shri Hemant Kumar, Centre for Fire, Explosive & Environment Safety (CFEES)
Dr Dipti Prasad, Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences (DIPAS)
Shri Santosh Kumar Choudhury, Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR)
Smt Arun Kamal, DPARO&M, DRDO HQrs
Dr Navin Kumar Soni, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS)
Dr Sujata Dash, Institute for Systems Studies & Analyses (ISSA)
Shri Ashok Kumar, Scientific Analysis Group (SAG)
Dr Rupesh Kumar Chaubey, Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL)
Gwalior : Dr AK Goel, Defence R&D Establishment (DRDE)
Haldwani : Dr Atul Grover, Defence Institute of Bio-Energy Research (DIBER)
Hyderabad : Shri Hemant Kumar, Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL)
Shri Srinivas Juluru, Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL)
Shri Ch Narasimhachari, Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL)
Shri S Shashi Nath, Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL)
Jagdalpur : Shri Khilawan Singh, SF Complex (SFC)
Jodhpur : Shri DK Tripathi, Defence Laboratory (DL)
Kanpur : Dr Mohit Katiyar, Defence Materials & Stores Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE)
Kochi : Smt Letha MM, Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL)
Leh : Dr Dorjey Angchok, Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR)
Mussoorie : Shri Sunil Bhandari, Institute of Technology Management (ITM)
Mysuru : Dr M Palmurugan, Defence Institute of Bio-defence Technologies (DIBT)
Nasik : Shri Ashutosh Sharma, Advanced Centre for Energetic Materials (ACEM)
Pune : Shri Ajay K Pandey, Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE)
Dr Vijay Pattar, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT)
Dr Ganesh Shankar Dombe, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL)
Tezpur : Dr KS Nakhuru, Defence Research Laboratory (DRL)
Visakhapatnam : Smt Jyotsna Rani, Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL)

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 DRDO NEWSLETTER

Contents
COVER STORY 4

ToT/MoU 7
EVENTS 9
HRD ACTIVITIES 18

RAJBHASHA ACTIVITIES 26
PERSONNEL NEWS 28
SPORTS ACTIVITIES 29
VISITS 31
Please mail your feedback and suggestions at:
director.desidoc@gov.in; drdonl.desidoc@gov.in;
Contact at: 011-23902403; 23902472; Fax: 011-23819151

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COVER STORY DRDO NEWSLETTER

ENGAGING WITH EXCELLENCE: RAKSHA MANTRI'S

INTERACTION WITH DRDO OFFICIALS
Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri technological ecosystem and keep
Rajnath Singh visited DRDO HQrs coming out with products that are
on 2 January 2025 and interacted relevant to the changing times.
with senior scientists and officials He urged the scientists to
to mark the 67th Foundation keep an eye on the products
Day of the organisation. Hon’ble & processes being adopted by
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay the technologically advanced
Seth also attended the meeting. countries and develop niche
In his address, Shri Rajnath Singh technologies with the aim to
commended DRDO for developing make DRDO one of the strongest
the indigenous capabilities of R&D organisations in the world. V Kamat, Secretary, DD R&D &
the country by equipping the He expressed his view that each Chairman, briefed Hon'ble RM
Armed Forces with state-of-the- laboratory of DRDO should about the ongoing R&D activities,
art technologies and equipment identify 2-3 critical projects, which achievements of DRDO in 2024,
and bolstering the defence sector should be completed by 2025. various initiatives of DRDO in
through collaboration with the Shri Singh called upon DRDO promoting industry, start-ups &
private sector. to explore the possibility of academia, and the roadmap of
In 2025, being declared as the including start-ups in its R&D DRDO for 2025. He said, so far,
‘Year of Reforms,’ Hon’ble RM efforts to promote a valuable 1,950 ToTs on DRDO-developed
asserted that DRDO will play a exchange of ideas and provide systems have been handed over
crucial role in achieving the set an opportunity for the Indian to Indian industries, of which 256
objectives. He called upon DRDO defence sector to come out with licensing agreements for ToTs
to continue moving ahead in innovative technologies according were signed with Indian industries
sync with the rapidly evolving to the changing times. Dr Samir in 2024.

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COVER STORY DRDO NEWSLETTER

DRDO'S TECHNOLOGICAL SPLENDOUR AT

REPUBLIC DAY 2025
Defence Research & & Control System (AEW&CS); achievements in 2024.
Development Organisation 155 mm/52 Cal Advanced Towed These included the Long Range
(DRDO), with a vision to Artillery Gun System (ATAGS); Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile, the
empower India with cutting- Drone Detect, Deter & Destroy; Light Weight Bulletproof Jacket
edge technologies and a mission Satellite-Based Surveillance (ABHED), the Divyastra-Multiple
to achieve ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in System Medium Power Radar– Independently Targetable Re-
defence, displayed some of its Arudhra; Advanced Light Weight entry Vehicle, the 'Zorawar' Light
path-breaking innovations for Torpedo; Electronic Warfare Tank, and the Dornier Mid-Life
national security during the 76th System–Dharashakti; Laser- Upgrade with radar, Electronic
Republic Day Parade at Kartavya based Directed Energy Weapon; Warfare System, Software Defined
Path, New Delhi, on 26 January Very Short Range Air Defence Radio, and Electro-optic (Shyen).
2025. System; Indigenous Unmanned Highlighting its unwavering
The DRDO Tableau, with the Aerial System; V/UHF Manpack commitment to precision,
theme ‘Raksha Kavach–Multi- Software Defined Radio for Land self-reliance, and national
layer Protection against Multi- Forces; Indigenous Secure Satellite security, DRDO also displayed
domain Threats,’ featured the Phone and UGRAM Assault Rifle. the equipment of the Pralay
Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air The tableau posters also Weapon System—a surface-to-
Missile. Airborne Early Warning showed DRDO's most important surface tactical missile designed

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COVER STORY DRDO NEWSLETTER

and developed with state-of-

the-art technologies, which
adds another layer of strength.
Many other DRDO-developed
systems—the Nag Missile System,
Pinaka, BrahMos, Short Span
Bridging System 10 m, and the
Akash Weapon System—were
displayed in various Armed Forces
contingents during the parade.
DRDO is primarily engaged
in system definition, design,
and development of many state-
of-the-art military systems and
technologies for realizing the goal
of ‘Make in India and Make for the
World.’ DRDO is partnering with
all stakeholders of the defence
ecosystem, including academia,
industry, start-ups, and services,
in developing critical systems
and to reinforce the spirit of
‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat.’.

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TOT/MOU DRDO NEWSLETTER

CAIR HANDED OVER INDIGENOUSLY DEVELOPED

MIL GIS TECHNOLOGY TO ECIL
The Transfer of Technology
(ToT) of the military Geographical
Information System (GIS)
developed by the Centre for
Artificial Intelligence and
Robotics (CAIR), Bengaluru, to
Electronics Corporation of India
Ltd (ECIL) was carried out during
16-19 December 2024 at ECIL
Hyderabad.
The technology was handed
over in a formal event organised at
ECIL. Dr Anesh Kumar Sharma,
DS & Director (Technical) of ECIL,
received the technology from Dr
Narayan Panigrahi, OS, Additional demonstrating how the APIs of was taken by BEL Bangalore,
Director (ToT) & Head of GIS various libraries of CAIRGIS can Microgenesis Techsoft Ltd
Division of CAIR. Dr Sharma be used for the development of Bangalore, and MapMyIndia
highlighted this ToT as a major GIS-based software applications New Delhi. With such a strong
milestone in ECIL’s endeavor to for the military. A second phase base of ToT partners, CAIR has
deliver indigenous technology- of training has also been planned successfully created a capability
based systems for Indian armed to handhold ECIL for developing and capacity in Indian industry for
forces. Smt Kamini Maheswari, their specific systems using the development and maintenance
OS & Project Director (Pj10 Wpn CAIRGIS. of GIS-based military systems
Cmplx), DRDL, also graced the The ToT has earned Rs. 2.8 Cr using homegrown GIS technology.
event. as a LaToT fee to DRDO. ECIL This is a great leap towards geo-
The CAIR team imparted the has now emerged as the fourth spatial atmanirbharata in the
hands-on training to the ECIL team ToT partner for CAIR's GIS Indian technology space with high
using about 20 example programs technology. Previously the ToT potential for export.

MOD INKS CONTRACT WITH MDL FOR AIP

SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION AND INTEGRATION
Rs 877 crore contract signed with Naval Group, France for integration
of Electronic Heavy Weight Torpedo to augment fire power capabilities
of Kalvari-Class submarines
Two contracts worth about Rs. first one is for the construction of AIP system and its integration
2,867 crore were signed by the an Air Independent Propulsion onboard Indian submarines. The
Ministry of Defence (MoD). The (AIP) plug for the DRDO- second one is for the integration

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TOT/MOU DRDO NEWSLETTER

of the Electronic Heavy Weight Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai, make conventional submarines
Torpedo (EHWT) onboard worth around Rs 1,990 crore, last longer and make a big
the Kalvari-Class submarines. while the contract for integration contribution to the 'Aatmanirbhar
Hon'ble Defence Secretary Shri of EHWT, being developed by Bharat'. The integration of EHWT
Rajesh Kumar Singh signed both DRDO, was signed with Naval will be a collaborative effort by the
contracts in New Delhi on 30 Group, France, at an approx. cost of Indian Navy, DRDO, and Naval
December 2024. Rs 877 crore. DRDO is developing Group, France. It would greatly
The contract for construction the AIP technology indigenously. augment the firepower capabilities
of AIP Plug and its integration Construction of AIP-Plug and its of Kalvari Class submarines of the
was inked with Mazagon Dock integration into the project will Indian Navy.

SAG SIGNS MOU WITH DTU AND IGDTUW,

DELHI
Continuing with Policy of
Government of India for greater
interaction and collaboration
between DRDO and Academia,
Scientific Analysis Group (SAG),
Delhi, has signed Memorandum of
Understandings (MoUs) with two
more premier universities, namely
Delhi Technological University
(DTU), Delhi and Indira Gandhi
Delhi Technological University
for Women (IGDTUW) on 6
December 2024 and 14 January
2025, respectively.
These MoUs will enable the
laboratory and these universities
to collaborate in R&D activities
in areas of mutual interest, which
would address multi-disciplinary
scientific and technological issues
of national relevance. The SAG and
these universities will cooperate
in joint research projects and
manpower training mainly in the
areas of cyber & network security,
AI/ML, big data analytics, post
quantum cryptography & quantum
computing/communication,
blockchain technology, advance
mathematics and cryptology,
cloud computing, wireless
communication & security, etc.

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EVENTS DRDO NEWSLETTER

DRDO CELEBRATES ITS FOUNDATION DAY

Several systems handed over and Acceptance of Necessity accorded for value of Rs 1.10 lakh
crore in 2024: DRDO Chairman
“73 projects worth Rs 275 crore sanctioned in 2024 engaging 266 researchers and 10 new
academic institutes”

Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary,

DD R&D & Chairman, DRDO,
along with Directors General
and senior officials, paid floral
tributes to former President and
the Missile Man of India, Dr APJ
Abdul Kalam, at his bust in DRDO
Headquarters, New Delhi, on 3
January 2025. These tributes were
paid to mark the 67th Foundation
Day of DRDO, which is celebrated
on 1st January every year.
During the event, many
important DRDO documents were
released by the DRDO Chairman.
These included an SOP on Product
Development, Compilation of
various SoPs & Guidelines related
to DRDO Personnel, DRDO website. The IIG is a proactive Day, and Quick Reaction Surface to
Transport Policy, Dictionary and structured framework set up Air Missile (QRSAM) at the 32nd
on scientific and technical so that businesses can voice any Global Symposium and 6th World
terminology, Magazines ‘InSight’, suggestions, concerns, questions, Project Management Forum.
Biannual Magazine 'Quest' and or complaints they may have The DRDO Chairman also
the January Issue of DRDO by meeting with concerned highlighted the DRDO initiatives for
Newsletter. laboratories one-on-one at open enabling industry & engagement of
The event marked the release of houses. academia in 2024 and said that, so
two DRDO monographs. The first In his address, the DRDO far, 1,950 Transfer of Technologies
monograph was ‘Conceptual Guide Chairman extended his greetings on DRDO-developed systems have
to Torpedo System Design and and said that 2024 was a very been handed over to the Indian
Development,’ authored by Dr RVS good year for the organisation. Industries, of which 256 Licensing
Subrahmanyam & Dr Y Sreenivas He stated that DRDO has been Agreements for Transfer of
Rao. The second monograph conferred with prestigious awards Technology (LAToTs) were signed
was ‘Himalayas to Hyderabad: in five categories: Innovation, with Indian Industries in 2024.
A Journey from Border Roads Technology, One of Its Kind Dr Kamat added that, as of this date,
to Missiles, Microdrones, and Building & Construction, and 80 projects are ongoing, with nine
Cyborgs’, authored by Lt Gen (Dr) Aatmanirbhar for the project projects awarded to industries/
VJ Sundaram & Smt Scharada DHARASHAKTI-Integrated MSMEs/start-ups in 2024. 29
Dubey. To increase synergy Electronic Warfare (EW) System, project approvals are also in the
with industry, Chairman DRDO Advanced Light Weight Torpedo pipeline and should get sanctioned
launched the Industry Interaction (ALWT), Advanced Towed Artillery soon. The PSLV C-58 mission
Group (IIG) initiative on the DRDO Gun System (ATAGS), Mission 45 successfully demonstrated a green

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EVENTS DRDO NEWSLETTER

propulsion system under the TDF indigenization of systems/sub- environment at DESIDOC and
scheme in orbit. Also, an AI tool, systems/components of AFVs. also insisted on skill upgrades
‘Divya Drishti,’ that integrates He also appreciated the project for DESIDOC employees for
face recognition with immutable team members for successfully better organizational output. The
physiological parameters such accomplishing the trial activities occasion also marked the release
as gait and skeleton has been in the desert terrain and high- of the DESIDOC Calendar 2025.
developed. altitude conditions.
The DRDO Chairman added that DMRL, Hyderabad
the 15 DRDO Industry Academia
The Defence Metallurgical
Centers of Excellence (DIA-CoEs),
which steer translational research Research Laboratory (DMRL),
activities in nearly 65 identified Hyderabad, celebrated the
research verticals, are performing 67th DRDO Day on 3 January
very well. In 2024, 73 projects 2025 with great enthusiasm.
were sanctioned with a total cost Dr R Balamuralikrishnan, OS
of Rs 275 crore, in which 266 & Director, DMRL, gave his
researchers and 10 new academic address, reflecting the significant
institutes have been engaged. This DESIDOC, Delhi achievements and milestones of
makes it a total of 274 sanctioned The Defence Scientific 2024. He appreciated the relentless
projects at the cost of Rs 984 crore, Information & Documentation efforts and contributions of the
engaging 900 researchers and 46 employees and encouraged them
Centre (DESIDOC), Delhi,
academic institutes.
celebrated the 67th DRDO Day on to remain motivated, maintain a
Besides celebrations at DRDO
January 3, 2025, with enthusiasm strong product-oriented approach,
HQrs, the following laboratories of
DRDO also celebrated DRDO Day and fervor. The celebration and simultaneously strengthen the
at their respective laboratories: commenced with the warm laboratory's scientific foundation.
welcoming of newly appointed He emphasized that these efforts
CVRDE, Chennai Director, Ms Kiran Chauhan, Sc ‘G’ are crucial for meeting the decadal
The 67th DRDO Foundation by DESIDOC's officers and staff. roadmap targets and fulfilling
Day was celebrated at the Combat The event followed on with the DMRL's long-term commitments
Vehicles Research & Development briefing by Dr Mohd Yousuf Ansari, towards the vision of Viksit Bharat
Establishment (CVRDE), Chennai, Sc ‘G’. He elaborated on the tasks while concurrently focusing on
on 3 January 2024. The address completed and the achievements increased Atmanirbharta in the
of Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary of DESIDOC during the year short and medium term. The
DD R&D & Chairman, DRDO, 2024. Ms Chauhan also addressed program concluded with Dr
was web streamed live during the the DESIDOC fraternity. In her Balamuralikrishnan presenting
celebrations. After completion address, she spoke about creating
of the address, Shri J Rajesh and maintaining a healthy work
Kumar, OS & Director, CVRDE,
along with senior scientists
and officers, unveiled the scale-
down model of the Light Tank-
Zorawar. In the keynote address,
the Director, CVRDE, extended
his warm wishes to the CVRDE
fraternity for the successful new
year ahead and emphasized the
need for development in the

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EVENTS DRDO NEWSLETTER

commendation certificates to message of Dr Samir V Kamat, gathering and appreciated the

personnel who completed 25 Secretary, DDR&D & Chairman, work done by ITM during 2024
years of dedicated service to DRDO followed by targets for and the successful conduct of
DRDO, marking their invaluable year 2025 by all DGs. Dr Mayank 14 mandatory courses with 369
contributions to the organization. Dwivedi, OS & Director, DMSRDE, participants. He highlighted the
then delivered the DRDO Day/
successful conduct of the National
DMSRDE, Kanpur New Year Day address.
Conference on Technology
He provided a detailed overview
Defence Materials and Management (TECHMA-2024).
of the notable accomplishments of
Stores Research & Development He also informed ITM about CBC
DMSRDE in the year 2024, as well
Establishment (DMSRDE), accreditation.
as the goals set for the year 2025.
Kanpur, celebrated the 67th He mentioned that in the year
He stressed orienting the work
DRDO Day on 3 January 2024 .The 2025, DRDO is under a reform
in line with the global scenario
programme started with the live
with special emphasis on niche phase, wherein ITM has a key role
DRONA webcast of the New Year
technologies for services. to play by providing training to
DRDO officials.
ITM, Mussoorie
DRDO Day was celebrated on 3
January 2025 at ITM, Mussoorie.
The celebration commenced
with offering floral tribute to
Dr APJ Abdul Kalam by ITM
personnel. It was followed by
the address of Shri SP Dobhal,
Director ITM. He addressed the

RAISING DAY CELEBRATIONS

CAIR Bengaluru
Centre for Artificial Intelligence
and Robotics (CAIR), Bengaluru,
celebrated its 38th Raising Day
on 20 December 2024. Dr Samir
V Kamat, Secretary DD R&D
& Chairman, DRDO, graced
the occasion (over the video
conference) as the Chief Guest.
The Guest of Honour was Smt
Suma Varughese, DS & DG (MED
& CoS), and Shri N Sitaram,
Fellow INAE, Former CCR&D
RCoE & Retd. OS & DG (MCC); During his address, Dr Rituraj
(ECS); Dr Subrata Rakshit, DS
Directors of sister laboratories; Kumar, OS & Director, CAIR,
& DG (TM & SAM); Lt. Gen.
Dr Arokiaswamy Velumani, highlighted the organization's
Rakesh Sharma, PVSM, UYSM,
former scientist BARC & founder achievements. The Chief Guest
AVSM, VSM (Retd), USI; Dr
of Thyrocare Technologies; and and Guest of Honour, while
G Athithan, Retd. DS & DG (MCC);
Prof. Arindam Gosh, IISc, were addressing the gathering, praised
Dr Sudhir Kamath, Director DIA-
the special invitees. the laboratory achievements and

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EVENTS DRDO NEWSLETTER

brought out their importance in

the current scenario.
The laboratory also organized
number of sports events during 29
November 2024 to 13 December
2024 as part of Raising Day
celebrations.
The day also marked the
celebration of Karnataka
Rajyotsava. Dr TM Kotresh, OS
& Director DEBEL (Retd.) was
the Chief Guest of the event.
Shri Prasanna Kumar KR, OS &
Associate Director, also addressed
the gathering.
an annual magazine of the ECS MTRDC, Bengaluru
ECS Cluster cluster named Satrangi was
released containing the articles The Microwave Tube Research
On 14 December 2024, the & Development Centre (MTRDC),
and contributions from all the
O/o DG (ECS cluster) celebrated Bengaluru, celebrated the annual
seven laboratories of the cluster.
its Raising Day. On the occasion, day on 13 December 2024. Dr
An initiative was taken to
the Directors of five laboratories, BK Das, DS & DG (ECS), graced
rate the performance of the
the Heads of two centres, and the the occasion as the Chief Guest
laboratories of the cluster based
Director of the Young Scientist of the event. Shri GA Srinivasa
on certain critical attributes. The
Laboratory DYSL (CT) were Murthy, DS & Director, DRDL,
best laboratory of the cluster
present. Shri SP Gomekar Sc 'G' & was the Guest of Honour. At
was felicitated with a running
Director (Admin), welcomed the the outset, Shri G Viswam, DS
trophy, and IRDE, Dehradun, was
august gathering and presented & Director LRDE & MTRDC,
declared the best laboratory of the
in brief the achievements of the welcomed all, and Dr SK Datta, OS
calendar year 2024.
cluster during the past year. & Centre Head MTRDC, briefed
The meritorious children of the
On the occasion, the Dr BK Das, the achievements of the Centre
employees of the office, who have
DS & DG (ECS), addressed the for 2024. The product release of
excelled in the class X and class
gathering and acknowledged the the X-band MPM for the BrahMos
XII exams, were also felicitated by
contribution of every individual Seeker was organised on that day.
the DS & DG (ECS). The Director
in marching ahead and making The product was handed over to
(PM), Dr PS Pandian, Sc ‘G’,
the ECS cluster a model cluster the users in the presence of the
presented the vote of thanks.
of DRDO. He reminded everyone
that only with the sincere efforts
of every individual, irrespective
of the post/cadre, can the goal of
self-reliance and Atmanirbhar
Bharat can be achieved.
He appreciated the Directors
and the Centre Heads of every
laboratory and centre for their
immense efforts made towards
the success of the projects and
wished them the best for the
success of the ongoing projects.
To commemorate the occasion,

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EVENTS DRDO NEWSLETTER

representatives of the production CEPTAM, and Directors of the laboratory in the year 2024. .
partner, M/s BEL, Bengaluru. various laboratories along with The NMRL Annual Report 2024,
There was also the release of the Director, PM O/o DG NS&M, was released on the occasion.
the Rajbhasha Technical home senior scientists from sister The Chief Guest also handed over
magazine, Umang, followed by DRDO laboratories, and NMRL certificates to lab-level awardees
the award distribution ceremony. employees, attended the event. and winners of sports events.
At the end, the vote of thanks was Shri PT Rojatkar, OS & Director, The Chief Guest also felicitated
proposed by Dr M Santra, OS & NMRL, presented an overview of the employees who completed 25
Associate Centre Head, MTRDC. growth and achievements made by years of service at DRDO.

NMRL Raising Day

The 72nd Raising Day was
celebrated at the Naval Materials
Research Laboratory (NMRL),
Ambernath, with great zeal and
enthusiasm on 6 January 2025. Dr
Samir V Kamat, Secretary DD R&D
& Chairman DRDO, graced the
event as the Chief Guest. Shri RV
Hara Prasad, DS & DG (NS&M),
Dr Manoranjan Patri, Chairman,

DIA-COE- IIT KANPUR PROJECTS HANDOVER

During IIT Kanpur's 65th actively participated in an capabilities, further demonstrating
Foundation Day celebrations, exhibition showcasing its cutting- the center's commitment to
the Hon'ble Raksha Mantri edge research and development advancing defence technologies.
Shri Rajnath Singh and Dr
Sameer V Kamat,
Secretary, DDR&D
& Chairman, DRDO,
graced the occasion.
A significant
highlight was the
formal handing over
of six DIA-CoE-
IITK projects worth
₹24 crores to Prof.
Manindra Agrawal,
Director, IIT Kanpur,
underscoring the
strong collaboration
between DRDO
and IIT Kanpur
in advancing
defence research.
Furthermore, DIA-
CoE IIT Kanpur

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EVENTS DRDO NEWSLETTER

DRDO PARTICIPATION AT VARIOUS EVENTS

CVRDE PARTICIPATION AT SHAASTRA EXPO 2025
Combat Vehicles Research researchers visited
& Development Establishment the CVRDE stall.
(CVRDE), Chennai, participated The event is an ideal
in Shaastra Expo 2025, organised platform for the
by IIT-Madras, during 3-7 January student’s fraternity,
2025. and the technologies
The exhibition is the annual showcased in this
technical fest of IIT-Madras, platform have kindled
and a large number of students, the young mind’s
scientists, delegates, and interest.

DRDO PARTICIPATION AT IISF 2024

The 10th India International Chairman ISRO; Dr K
Science Festival 2024 was held at Sasikumar, Secretary
IIT-Guwahati, during 3 November for Science, Technology
2024 to 3 December 2024. DIPAS, & Environment of
DRDL, and ADRDE, participated Tripura; prominent
in the event and DRL was the guests; and students
nodal laboratory for DRDO. from schools and
The DRDO pavilion attracted colleges. DRL exhibited
significant attention from its various products
various dignitaries, including Dr during the exhibition. advanced missile systems displayed by DRDL
S Somanath, Secretary, DoS & Tabletop models of were significant points of interaction.

DLJ PARTICIPATION IN PROMETEO-2025

IIT-Jodhpur organised a event. DLJ also
technical event ‘PROMETEO organized a quiz
2025’ during 17-19 January 2025 competition based
to bring together leading minds on the theme
in technology, innovation, and ‘Defence Innovation
entrepreneurship, fostering and Technological
environment for intellectual Advancements’ for
exchange and exploration. Defence students of IIT-
Laboratory Jodhpur (DLJ), Jodhpur and visiting
showcased various indigenously students from other
developed technologies in the institute.

DLJ AND ARDE PARTICIPATION IN 25TH RASHTRA KATHA SHIVIR

25thRashtra Katha Shivir, was Jodhpur (DLJ) as the nodal Establishment (ARDE), Pune, as
organized during 28 December laboratory and High Energy the participating agency. Total
2024 to 5 January 2025 at Rajkot, Materials Research Laboratory 20 exhibits from DRDO were
Gujrat. DRDO participated in the (HEMRL), Pune and Armament showcased.
event with Defence Laboratory, Research and Development

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EVENTS DRDO NEWSLETTER

STEEL CUTTING CEREMONY AT L&T HAZIRA

Steel cutting ceremony for Air
Independent Propulsion (AIP)
system was held at L&T Hazira on
28 December 2024. It represented
a key milestone in the pursuit of
self-reliance through indigenous
technological advancements.
The event marked a crucial
achievement in the AIP program,
heralding the beginning of a
critical manufacturing phase and
serving as a tangible outcome of
extensive research & development
efforts at Naval Materials Research
Laboratory (NMRL), Ambernath
for this innovative technology. DD R&D & Chairman DRDO Dr Suman Roy Choudhury, Sc ‘H’,
The AIP technology, developed at this momentous occasion AIP Programme Director, Dr Y
by DRDO for INS Kalvari class of emphasized the significance of Srinivas Rao, former DG (NSM),
Submarine is being manufactured AIP system within the realm of Dr Varaprasad former DG (HR)
by M/s L&T Precision Systems and defence technology development. and senior officials from DRDO,
Engg under technology transfer Along with him, Shri RV Hara Naval Group and L&T were also
from DRDO. The presence of Prasad, DS & DG (NSM), Shri PT present for the steel cutting
Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary Rojatkar, OS & Director NMRL, ceremony.

WORLD QUALITY WEEK CELEBRATION AT DLRL

Defence Electronics Research
Laboratory (DLRL), Hyderabad,
celebrated World Quality
Week on 20 December 2024,
covering the complete gambit
of the highest Q&R aspects.
Quality, reliability, and safety are
hallmarks of any defence system
deployed for national security.
DLRL is developing world-class
EW systems with huge export
potential. Quality has always been
a cornerstone for such potential
systems. All the employees
participated in quiz and slogan
writing competitions and pledged
to uphold quality online. A targeted
and in-house-designed course on
quality management targeting along with the Engineering Staff were organized quality kits were
the future PDs was conducted College of India (ESCI). Lectures distributed.

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EVENTS DRDO NEWSLETTER

SWACHHTA PAKHWADA CELEBRATIONS

ASL, Hyderabad cleanliness drive, plantation DMSRDE, Kanpur
drives, campaign on discarding
Advanced Systems Laboratory the use of single use plastic, were Defence Materials and
(ASL), hyderabad, observed organized. All the officials of Stores Research & Development
Swachhta pakhwada from CASDIC, IAF Personnel, IDST, Establishment (DMSRDE),
December 1–15, 2024. The contract employees took part in Kanpur, organised Swachhta
campaign included a mass the celebrations. pakhwada during 1-15 December
swachhta pledge. Swachhata 2024. Besides the cleanliness
rally, cleanliness drive, and DLRL, Hyderabad drive during the two-week-long
plantation were also organized. program, various day-by-day
Defence Electronics Research
The Swachhta Thematic Paintings activities such as the swachhta
Laboratory (DLRL), hyderabad,
competition was conducted for the pledge, shramadan, swachhta
celebrated swachhta pakhwada
children of ASL employees. Books rally, tree plantation, a selfie booth
during 1-15 December 2024.
on famous scientists were given to at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam statue, a
All the employees of DLRL
all the participants as a token of signature campaign, a campaign
participated in the mass swachhta
appreciation. on discarding the use of single-use
pledge. A plantation drive was
plastic, and swachhta thematic
organized and about 60 saplings
paintings on the DMSRDE
were planted. A selfie booth with
boundary wall were planned and
swachhta slogans was set up for
executed during the pakhwada.
the employees to take selfies and
The event was coordinated by Shri
post them on social media sites to
Shilendra Kumar, Sc ‘G’, Dr Sunil
boost swachhta awareness among
Kumar, Sc ‘D’ and Shri Shashi
the general public.
Prakash, TO ‘B’.
A mass signature campaign was
organized and many employees
actively participated in the
CASDIC, Bengaluru campaign. A video presentation
concluded the swachhta
Combat Aircraft System
pakhwada, highlighting the
Development and Integration
harmful effects of single-use
Centre (CASDIC), Bengaluru,
plastic on the environment.
conducted Swachhta Pakhwada
during 1-15 December 2024 under
the leadership of Shri Rajeev
Marathe, OS & Centre Head,
CASDIC. As a part of this, various
events including mass swachhta
pledge, shramdan activities,

| FEBRUARY 2025 16
EVENTS DRDO NEWSLETTER

MTRDC, Bengaluru
The Microwave Tube Research
& Development Centre (MTRDC),
Bengaluru, celebrated swachhta
pakhwada from 2 to 15 December
2024. As part of the event, the
swachhta pledge was administered
at the Centre by Dr SK Datta, OS &
Centre Head, MTRDC. Apart from
this, there were poster-making and
slogan competitions organised at
the Centre. The best-maintained
sections, one from the technical
category and one from the non-
technical category, were identified
and were awarded during the
lab-raising day celebration. A to explore innovative waste use plastic waste and addressing
swachhta run was also organised management solutions. Shri areas with any kind of water
as part of the event. Sijomon PJ, Sc ‘F’ was the Nodal stagnation. A plantation drive and
Officer for the event. a selfie booth were established,
and cotton bags were distributed.
NSTL, Visakhapatnam Scientists, Chief Security Officer,
The Naval Science & and other officers; NSTL Civil
Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Employees Union President
Visakhapatnam, celebrated Sri A Sunil, Joint Secretary Sri
swachhta pakhwada during Ankit Sharma; Works Committee
December 2-17, 2024. During the Members Sri Alok Chand; Sri
event, special emphasis was laid Balram Kumar; and other staff
NPOL, Kochi on cleaning the unattended sites, participated. Lt. Col. Rahul Dixit
The Naval Physical & building rooftops with a focus on of the Works & Estate Directorate
Oceanographic Laboratory making the campus free of single- organized these activities.
(NPOL), Kochi, observed
Swachhta Pakhwada during
December 2–16, 2024.
One of the standout activities
was the plantation drive at the
NPOL Sagar residential campus,
inaugurated by Smt Uma Thomas,
the MLA of the Thrikkakkara
constituency, who emphasized
the importance of community
involvement in greening
initiatives where 30 exotic trees
were planted. A key focus was also
on raising public awareness about
the harmful effects of single-use
plastic. Furthermore, a friendly
visit to CMFRI, Ernakulam,

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HRD ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

COURSE ON EW TECHNOLOGIES FOR SPACE

A Continuing Education
Programme (CEP) on ‘Electronic
Warfare (EW) Technologies
for Space’ was organized by the
Defence Electronics Research
Laboratory (DLRL), Hyderabad,
during 9-13 December, 2024. The
program witnessed enthusiastic
participation from senior officers
and personnel from the Indian
Navy, Indian Air Force, Indian
Army, URSC (ISRO), NTRO, ARC,
and DRDO laboratories.
The inaugural ceremony was (Retd.) & former Director, DLRL, the course included significant
graced by eminent personalities, who served as the esteemed Chief contributions from industry
notably Sri N Srinivas Rao, DS & Guest. Besides lectures from partners. Dr AK Singh, Sc ‘G’, was
Director, DLRL, Sri SP Dash, DS eminent faculties and speakers, the Course Director.

COURSE ON MID-CAREER TRAINING

AUGMENTATION AT ITM
A course on ‘Mid Career former DS & DG (Aero), and Shri course and a total of 24 participants
Training Augmentation (MITRA SP Dobhal, Director, ITM. Dr from different clusters of DRDO
4.2)’ for newly promoted Scientist Bishwajeet Choubey, Director, attended the course.
‘D’ was organized by the Institute CW&E, was the Chief Guest during The Chief Guest gave inaugural
of Technology Management the valedictory function of the address with an overview of the
(ITM), Mussoorie, and was course. Shri Amarnath Kosgi, Sc 'Challenges in Development of
conducted during 25 November ‘E’ was the Course Director of the Aero Engines'.
2024 to 20 December 2024 at
ITM. The objective of
the course was to orient
the newly promoted
Scientist ‘D’ towards
project management,
technology management,
material management,
group dynamics &
team building, design
of experiments, new
product development,
and various corporate
functions of DRDO.
The course was
inaugurated by Chief
Guest Shri MZ Siddiqui,

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HRD ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

COURSE ON MODELLING AND SIMULATION

TECHNIQUES IN DEFENCE ANALYSES
Institute for System Studies
and Analyses (ISSA), Delhi,
organised a five-day course
on ‘Modelling and Simulation
Techniques in Defence Analyses’
during 2-6 December 2024 with
the objective to introduce the
participant to mathematical
techniques used in studies of
defence analyses problems.
Twenty-three participants from
different DRDO laboratories and
BrahMos Aerospace attended
the course. Experts from IIT-
Delhi, JIIT-Noida, and ISSA
delivered lectures followed by optimization techniques for Director and Shri Sankalp Kumar
four demonstrations on systems applications, and other related Sharma, Sc 'E' was the Deputy
analysis and application, modeling research areas. Dr Vikash Kumar Course Director.
and simulation approaches, Sharma, Sc 'F' was the Course

SEMINAR ON QUANTUM TECHNOLOGY

The Directorate of Futuristic
Technology Management
(DFTM), DRDO HQrs, under the
leadership of Dr Subrata Rakshit,
DG (TM), organized a seminar
on ‘Quantum Technology’ on 27
November 2024 at IIT-Delhi. The
event brought together thought
leaders from academia, industry,
and government to explore India’s
advancements and roadmap in
quantum technologies. Dr Rakshit
emphasized quantum technology
as a transformative enabler for
national security and technological
self-reliance. Dr Ranjana, Director,
DFTM, stressed the importance
of strategic collaboration across
research institutions, government, the National Quantum Mission, computing, communication,
and industry to accelerate the provided an overview of the sensing, and materials, aligning
adoption of quantum innovations. mission’s phased approach to research efforts with strategic
Dr JBV Reddy, representing building capabilities in quantum national priorities.

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HRD ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

COURSE ON SENSOR SYSTEM ANALYSIS AND

MODELING AT ISSA
Institute for System Studies
and Analyses (ISSA), Delhi,
organised a three-day course
on ‘Sensor System Analysis and
Modeling’ during 18-20 December
2024 with the objective to
introduce the participants to the
basis of modeling and simulation
of sensors like radar, EW systems,
sonar, and satellites.
Eighteen participants from
different DRDO laboratories and
BrahMos Aerospace attended
the course. Experts from IIT-
Delhi, BEL (Ghaziabad), and
ISSA delivered the lectures. The under Course Director Shri Vishal Director Shri Suresh Kumar, Sc
course was successfully completed Aggarwal, Sc 'F' and Deputy Course 'E'.

CONFERENCE ON HYDROGEN 2025 AT NMRL

Naval Materials Research
Laboratory (NMRL), Ambernath,
organized a conference, ‘Hydrogen
2025’ on 7 January 2025. The
conference was inaugurated by
Hon’ble Padma Bhushan Dr
VK Saraswat, Member of NITI
Aayog, who was the Chief Guest
for the event. Padma Shri Prof.
Vedachalam, ISRO, and Shri RV
Hara Prasad, DS & DG (NS&M),
graced the occasion as Guests of
Honour. Dr Manoranjan Patri,
Chairman, CEPTAM; VAdm DSP
Varma (Retd.); RAdm Ashish
Kulkarni, Directors of NSM cluster
laboratories, viz. DMSRDE, DLJ The program featured technical conference served as an important
& NPOL; and senior scientists of sessions that covered a wide range platform for advancing the
sister DRDO laboratories were of presentations and discussions development and adoption of
the invited guests for conference. related to hydrogen technology hydrogen technologies, fostering
Shri PT Rojatkar, OS & Director, by distinguished speakers from collaboration among stakeholders,
NMRL, welcomed all the guests academia, industry, research and shaping the future of hydrogen
and participants. institutes, and NITI Aayog. The energy.

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HRD ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

WORKSHOP ON ADVANCED WELDING

TECHNOLOGIES FOR WARSHIP CONSTRUCTION
The Naval Materials Research
Laboratory (NMRL), Ambernath,
organized one-day workshop on
‘Advanced Welding Technologies
for Warship Construction’ on
8 January 2025. Shri Sanjeev
Singhal, CMD, Mazagon Dock
Shipbuilders Limited, graced
the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Dr Y Sreenivas Rao, former
DG (NS&M); senior scientists
from sister DRDO laboratories;
academia; shipbuilders; support
industries; and NMRL employees
attended the workshop. Shri PT
Rojatkar, OS & Director, NMRL
welcomed the Chief Guest and
highlighted the importance of address by Shri Sanjeev Singhal quality assurance aspects, etc., in
welding in structural components. emphasizing the importance shipbuilding. This conference also
He discussed about the traditional of advanced welding practices included an exhibition of welding
practices and recent trends in the being followed by shipbuilders, technologies. The conference
fields of welding technology. challenges faced in shipbuilding, concluded with vote of thanks by
The event featured an emerging welding technologies, Dr B Basu, Sc ‘H’.

WORKSHOP ON AWARENESS AND ENHANCEMENT

OF WELLNESS FOR IAF PERSONNEL
A workshop on ‘Awareness and
Enhancement of Wellness amongst
IAF Personnel’ was organized by
O/o Scientific Advisor to Chief of
the Air Staff (SA to CAS) during
16-17 December 2024 at Air Force
Station, Race Course, New Delhi.
The workshop was graced by Air
Marshal Tejinder Singh, AVSM,
VM, and Deputy Chief of the Air
Staff (DCAS) as the Chief Guest.
The workshop was designed by
Smt Asha Tripathi, SA to CAS,
with the objective of giving
insights to the participants about
their strengths to withstand future

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HRD ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

challenges on both personal and Stations. Expert faculties were of Happiness'. The valedictory
professional fronts and to prepare invited from DIPR, IAF, and Delhi session was chaired by Air
them to develop their own plans University. Marshal S K Vidhate, AVSM, YSM,
and strategies to balance out Dr Manas K Mandal, Visiting VM, and Air Officer-in-Charge of
their internal needs and external Professor, IIT Kharagpur, and Personnel (AOP). The workshop
demands. It was casted live over former DG, DRDO, had given a concluded with a vote of thanks by
AFNET so as to cover all Air Force special lecture on the 'Science Smt Tripathi.

COURSE ON LIVE CHEMICAL WARFARE AGENTS

AT NAGPUR FOR NDRF RESCUERS
The Chemical Defence
Equipment Evaluation Facility
(CDEF) at the Defence R&D
Establishment (DRDE), Nagpur,
has been teaching tri-services,
NSG, and SPG advanced training
on live chemical agents since July
2022. The goal is to make the
country self-sufficient in chemical
defence and to be ready for and
take countermeasures for chemical
emergencies. These courses have
trained 550 people so far. The and rigorous training to handle Director, DRDE, and the training
rescuers of NDRF, consisting of and manage any untoward module was meticulously designed
various armed forces like SDRF, chemical incident involving and executed by CDEF scientists
ITBP, ICG, NDRF, CISF, CRPF, Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs). under the leadership of course
State Police, Indian Army, and The course was inaugurated director Dr Bidhan Chandra Bag,
BSF, were given a comprehensive by Dr Manmohan Parida, OS & Sc ‘G’ & OIC-CDEF, Nagpur.

LONG LOGISTICS MANAG. COURSE AT DIBT

The 43rd Long Logistics
Management Course was
organised by the Defence Institute
of Bio-Defence Technology (DIBT),
Mysuru, on 16 January 2025. The
course was specifically designed
to cater to the requirements of
logistics officers undergoing the
one-year logistics management
course at INS Hamla, Mumbai. Cameroon, Benin, Myanmar, equipment, machinery, and field
A total of 24 officers from the and Tanzania, participated in the test kits. Dr R Kumar, Sc ‘G’ and
Indian Navy and Indian Coast program. The course included Centre Head, DIBT, inaugurated
Guard, along with 14 officers from lecture sessions followed by the course and Dr VA Sajeev
friendly foreign countries, i.e., on-lab demonstrations of Kumar, Sc ‘G’ was the Course
Ghana, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, DIBT's technologies, products, Coordinator.

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HRD ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

COURSE ON MECHANICAL STRUCTURES AND

SYSTEMS FOR NAVAL APPLICATIONS IN NSTL
A course on 'Mechanical
Structures and Systems for
Naval Applications' was
organized by Naval Science &
Technological Laboratory (NSTL),
Visakhapatnam, during 9-13
December 2024. Dr Abraham
Varughese, OS & Director, NSTL
inaugurated the course, Dr HN
Das, OS & AD & PD (HEAUV)
and Course Director Dr Y Appa
Rao, SC ’G’ & Group Director
(MSD&I) participated. Director,
NSTL highlighted the importance
of advancement in the mechanical simulation tools and use of The keynote address was delivered
design and design simulations materials such as marine grade by Dr Ajith Kumar, Sc ‘H’ (Retd),
using state-of-the-art software materials and composite materials. Former Director, NPOL.

COURSES AT VRDE, AHMEDNAGAR

Orientation for Newly functioning of DRDO, VRDE 21 students from VJTI-Mumbai,
structure and projects, conduct DKTE-Ichalkaranji, and MIT-
Recruited Store rules for government employees, Manipal, Udupi, participated in
Assist. & Admin Assist. leave rules, pay and allowance, the classes. The classes exposed
A two-day orientation program LTC & medical reimbursement. the students to various state-of-
was organized for the newly An interaction with the director the-art technologies developed
recruited store assistants and was also arranged. In his address, by VRDE in the field of system
admin assistants at the Vehicle the Director informed the new warfare platforms.
Research and Development recruits about the importance of The students had the
Establishment (VRDE), Ahmed- being honest and taking a scientific opportunity to interact and learn
nagar, during December 16–17, approach to the assigned task. He with the designers of different
2024. Several sessions provided also cautioned them to be vigilant warfare platforms such as WhAP,
insight into various topics for a towards the security and cyber WhAP CBRN, MGS, and various
total of 15 individuals. Sessions security issues. AFVs. They were given exposure
included organization and to the fundamentals, architecture,
Lab Classes for MTech and advanced design features of a
(Defence Technology) warfare platform.
As a part of the curriculum,
MTech (Defence Technology)
lab classes on the subject
‘System Warfare Platforms’ were
conducted at the VRDE during
18-20 December 2024. A total of

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HRD ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

CYBER SECURITY AWARENESS MONTH AT DLRL

Defence Electronics Research
Laboratory (DLRL), Hyderabad,
commemorated Cyber Awareness
Month on 18 December 2024,
and renowned speaker Mr Ayub
Shaikh, Huntmetrics Pvt. Ltd.,
Hyderabad, gave an insightful
presentation on ‘Latest Trends
in Cyber Security and Incidence
Report Management’. In addition,
a number of activities were
also carried out, like taking an
online cyber pledge, creating
awareness through the intranet,
and also all Cyber Representatives
from different DLRL divisions
underwent customized training on
Cyber Security at the Engineering
Staff College of India (ESCI).

AWARENESS PROGRAMME BY DESIDOC AT

ARDE
A presentation-cum-demon-
stration on the digital library on
DRONA & e-resources was made
by Dr K Nageswara Rao, OS &
Director, DESIDOC, Delhi, on
20 December at the Armament
Research and Development
Establishment (ARDE), Pune. He
highlighted the features of the
Digital Library that has nearly
10 lakhs of full-text PDFs from
various e-resources, viz., books,
journals, standards, conference
proceedings, etc.
He also mentioned various
features and functionalities of
this digital library to fulfill the
information and research needs Cs, & Ds of ARDE. Shri A Raju , OS
of scientists. The presentation was & Director, ARDE, facilitated him
attended by all the scientists Bs, on the occasion.

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HRD ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

WORKSHOP ON POSH ACT AT SSPL

The Solid State Physics healthy, and inclusive workspace The event concluded with the
Laboratory (SSPL), Delhi, for both genders in her address. felicitation of the speaker by the
organized a one-day workshop Delhi High Court Advocate Gauri director, SSPL, and also with the
on the POSH Act and gender Singh conducted the interactive formal introduction of the recently
sensitization on 24 December workshop with basic awareness of constituted Internal Complaints
2024. Dr Meena Mishra, Director, the POSH Act and then examined Committee (ICC). The vote of
SSPL, signified the importance of the participants' sensitization to thanks was presented by Dr Jaya
the workshop to create a respectful, gender through a Q&A activity. Lohani, Chairperson, ICC-SSPL.

COURSE ON RETIREMENT PLANNING AT DLJ

A training program on
‘Retirement Planning’ was
organized by the Directorate of
HRD (DHRD), DRDO HQrs,
in association with the Defence
Laboratory (DL), Jodhpur, during
6-7 January 2025. A total of 33
officials from various laboratories
and establishments of DRDO
participated in the program. Expert
speakers from DRDO, AIIMS-
Jodhpur, JNVU, Jodhpur, and
Chartered Accountant delivered wellness, stress management, planning, investment decisions,
lectures on SPARSH, health and lifestyle re-engineering, financial etc.

WORKSHOP FOR ICS OF DRDO LABS AT ITR

A two-day workshop for
presiding officers/members of
ICs was jointly organised with
Integrated Test Range (ITR),
Chandipur and DoP, DRDO
HQrs, during 17-18 January 2025.
The workshop was inaugurated
by Smt U JeyaSanthi, OS & DG
(HR), in the presence of Director,
ITR, and other dignitaries. The
sessions started by an overview of
the activities by Sh Sanjai kumar
Dwivedi, Director, DOP.
This was followed by sessions on
steps for conducting preliminary
inquiry by Ms Nishi Srivastava, Rules, 1965 by Shri Sandeep Singh, studies by Shri Sampurna Kumar,
Addl Dir, Procedure of Conducting Jt Director, DoP, Important Case Dy Director, DoP.
inquiry under Rule 14 Of (CCA)

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RAJBHASHA ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

RAJBHASHA CONFERENCE-UNMESH-2025
DRDO HQrs and Research
Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad,
jointly organized the Second All
India Technical Official Language
Conference Unmesh-2025
on ‘Science for Sustainable
Development’ during 10-11
January 2025 on the occasion of
World Hindi Day. Smt Anshuli
Arya, Secretary, Department of
Official Language, Ministry of
Home Affairs graced the occasion
as the Chief Guest. During the
inaugural session, a souvenir of
the conference was also released. the conference, research papers in Telugu language.
Dr Samir V kamat, Secretary were invited from major technical Dr MK Gupta 'G' & Shri Chandra
DDR&D & Chairman DRDO; organizations/universities in Prakash Meena, Sc ‘E’ as Co-
Shri U Raja Babu, DG (MSS); which some of the important Convenor and Shri Kazim Ahmed,
Shri Anindya Biswas, Director, names are ISRO, BARC, DAE, Assistant Director (OL) and Mrs
RCI; Shri Sunil Sharma, Director, ICAR, IARI, IIT, NIT, DTU. A total Arunkamal, Assistant Director
DPARO&M and many other of 180 papers were received and (OL) as coordinator played a key
esteemed guests graced the event 42 presentations were made in role in the successful organization
with their presence. As part of Hindi as medium and one session of the event.

RAJBHASHA SANGOSHTHI OF SSS CLUSTER

The Soldier Support System
(SSS) cluster of DRDO, in
association with DRARO&M,
DRDO HQrs Delhi, organised
its first Sanyukt Rajbhasha
Sangoshthi at Defence Research
Laboratory (DRL), Tezpur,
during 12-13 December 2024
on ‘Viksit Bharat Mein Raksha
Prodyogiki Ka Yogdan.’. Dr DV
Kamboj, Director, DRL, in his
welcome address, highlighted
the importance of using Hindi
for writing scientific articles and
encouraged the participants to session as the Chief Guest. Dr Sunil Dr PK Bora, Director,
continue promoting Hindi in Sharma, Director, DPARO&M, NERIWALM was the Chief Guest
their academic and professional Shri Arun Chaudhary, Director, during the valedictory function.
endeavors. Prof. Shambhu Nath DIITM, and Brig. Sujit Upadhyay, Eighty participants from DRDO
Singh, Vice Chancellor of Tezpur Brig. EME 4 Corps also graced the laboratories participated in the
University, graced the inaugural event as the Guests of Honour. event.

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RAJBHASHA ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

HINDI KARYASHALA AT DESIDOC

A Hindi Karyashala was
organised by Defence Scientific
Information & Documentation
Centre (DESIDOC), Delhi, on 17
December 2024. The Karyashala
was inaugurated by Dr K
Nageswara Rao, OS & Director,
DESIDOC. Shri Girish Mishra,
Sc 'F', Scientific Analysis Group
(SAG), Delhi, was the orator of
the Karyashala. He spoke about
Blockchain Technology and Crypto
Currency-its benefits, implications
and precautions to be taken for its
use in day-to-day life. The talk
was quite informative and was
appreciated by one and all. The
Karyashala was attended by the
employees of DESIDOC.

HINDI KARYASHALA AT NSTL

As part of the Hindi
Implementation Program,
a Rajbhasha workshop was
held at the Naval Science &
Technological Laboratory (NSTL),
Visakhapatnam, on December
19, 2024, for all cadres. The goal
was to get more officers and staff
interested in Rajbhasha Hindi and
to get rid of any fears they had
about using it for work. A lecture
was delivered by the invited
speaker Shri Ghanshyam Prasad
Namdev, Assistant Director,
Hindi, Teaching Scheme, Jabalpur,
on ‘Use of Hindi Software in
Computer’ in a single session. The
trainees also participated in an
interactive session.
A total of 120 participants Rajbhasha Adhikari thanked the
from all cadres participated gathering.
enthusiastically in the workshop.
Shri Vivek Sharma, Sc.F., and

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PERSONNEL NEWS DRDO NEWSLETTER

APPOINTMENT
CEO of GAETEC, Hyderabad
Dr G Sai Saravanan, OS & Sc ‘H', Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), Delhi, has
been appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gallium Arsenide Enabling
Technology Centre (GAETEC), Hyderabad, on 1 November 2024. He joined SSPL
in 1991 and moved to GAETEC in 2000 to form and head the SSPL MMIC Research
Centre (SMRC). Dr Saravanan completed his MSc (Physics) from Bharathidasan
University, Tamil Nadu, MTech. in Laser & Electro-optical Engineering from
College of Engineering, Anna University, Chennai, and PhD from School of Physics,
University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad. He was awarded the ‘Outstanding Teamwork
Award’ from SA to RM in 2001, ‘Scientist of the Year’ in 2003, ‘National Technology
Day Oration’ in 2010, and ‘Technology Group Award’ in 2010, and the ‘Reviewer
of the Year 2016’ award from the Institute of Physics Publishing (IoP), UK, for peer review for the
international journal Semiconductor Science and Technology in its year of inception.

Higher Qualifications Acquired

Dr Siddappaji B, Sc ‘F’, Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Bengaluru, has

been awarded a PhD from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, for the thesis entitled
‘Integration of Drones/UAVs into Indian Civil National Air Space System-Regulatory
Framework for Commercial usage of Drones'.

Dr S Ramesh Kumar, Sc ‘G’ of Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL),

Hyderabad, has been awarded PhD in Mechanical Engineering by Osmania University,
Hyderabad.

Smt Krishnakumar R, Sc ‘E’, Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), Kochi,
has been awarded a PhD under the faculty of Science from Cochin University of Science and
Technology for the thesis titled ‘Simulation and Experimental Validation of Self-Noise in
Piezoelectric Transducers and Enhancement of Performance Characteristics by Broadband
Tuning'.

Shri Rajeev R Ashokan, Sc ‘E’, Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL),
Kochi, has been awarded a PhD under the faculty of Science from Cochin University of
Science and Technology for the thesis titled ‘An Investigation on the Design, Fabrication
and Characterization of Sensors for Ocean Profiling'.

| FEBRUARY 2025 28
SPORTS ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

DLJ WINS FRACAS CHAMPIONSHIP AWARD

Defence Laboratory, Jodhpur
(DLJ) has been honoured
with the Failure Reporting
and Corrective Action System
(FRACAS) Championship Award
2024 among the NS&M cluster
laboratories. Instituted by the
Secretary DDR&D and Chairman
DRDO, the award aims to foster a
culture of learning through failure
analysis and reporting during
product development.
Sh VS Shenoi, OS & Director,
DLJ, received the award from Shri
RV Hara Prasad, DS & DG (NS&M)
alongside Sh Dinesh Kumar
Gupta, Sc ‘F’ & PD Gaganyaan
(DLJ) and Shri Sanjay Kumar DLJ was recognized for The award underscores DLJ's
Sharma, Sc ‘F’ & Head Q&R (DLJ), presenting the best FRACAS case commitment to continuous
during 66th NS&M CCM held in study during the development of improvement through learning
Visakhapatnam on November 28, the Active Dosimeter 'PERDAA' from failures during the product
2024. for ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission. development process.

DRDO CENTRAL ZONE VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT

Defence Metallurgical Research
Laboratory (DMRL), Hyderabad,
organized the DRDO Central
Zone Volleyball Tournament
2024-25 during 18-20 December
2024. The event witnessed
enthusiastic participation from
eight teams representing various
DRDO laboratories, including
DMRL, DRDL, RCI, ASL, DLRL,
NSTL, ITR, and PXE. The
tournament was inaugurated by
Dr R Balamuralikrishnan, OS & Prem Kumar, Sc ‘E’ & Chairman, Team RCI emerged as the
Director, DMRL, in the presence of DMRL Sports Committee; Shri tournament champion, while
officers, staff, and the participating MC Chennappa Naik, Secretary, Team DLRL secured the runner-
teams. Dr Om Prakash Parida, Sc ‘F’ DMRL Sports Committee; Shri up position. The valedictory
& Chairman, Central Zone Sports Anil Burde, Secretary, DMRL function was graced by the Chief
Council; Shri Vinod Kumar, Estate Works Committee; and JCM III Guest, Shri Ramakrishna, who
Manager, EMU, Kanchnabagh; Dr members from local laboratories presented trophies and medals to
NV Rama Rao, Sc ‘F’ & Chairman, and union members from DMRL the winning teams, applauding
DMRL Works Committee; Dr M were present on the occasion. their outstanding performances.

29 | FEBRUARY 2025
SPORTS ACTIVITIES DRDO NEWSLETTER

DRDO NORTH ZONE VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT

Defence Materials and
Stores Research & Development
Establishment (DMSRDE),
Kanpur, won the DRDO North
Zone Volleyball Tournament
2024-25 held at SSPL, Delhi,
during 17-19 December 2024.
Overall, 13 teams from sister labs,
namely TBRL, INMAS, CFEES,
DEAL, IRDE, DMSRDE, ISSA,
DLJ, ADRDE, DESIDOC, JCB,
ITM, and host SSPL, participated
in the tournament.
Dr Mayank Dwivedi, OS & and greeted the players of the DEAL, Dehradun, was the runner-
Director, DMSRDE, congratulated winning volleyball team. The up team during the tournament.

VISITORS TO DRDO LABORATORIES

ARDE, Pune
aa Twenty-five officers (including
three foreign nationals) of the rank
of lieutenant colonel, major, and
captain undergoing the Advanced
Materials Management (AMM)
Course Sr No 53 at the College of
Materials Management (CMM),
Jabalpur, along with one directing
staff member, visited Armament
Research and Development
Establishment (ARDE), Pune, on
13 December 2024. The visitors Officers from College of Materials Management (CMM), Jabalpur at ARDE, Pune
were briefed about ARDE, and a
presentation on 'Safety Aspects one directing staff
in Explosives and Ammunition member, visited ARDE
Handling' was given. The visit also on 16 December 2024.
included a demonstration of small
arms and a visit to System Bay. aa The visitors were
briefed about ARDE,
aa Sixteen students of the rank and a presentation on
of Sub Inspector and Havaldar 'Infantry Weapons' was
undergoing the Advanced made to them. A visit
Ammunition & Explosives to the Static Exposition
Technician Course Sr No 20 Hall was also arranged
(AAET Sr No 20), along with during the visit. Students of AAET Sr No 20, at ARDE, Pune

| FEBRUARY 2025 30
VISITS DRDO NEWSLETTER

CAIR, Bengaluru
Vice Admiral Krishna
Swaminathan, AVSM, VSM, Vice
Chief of Naval Staff (VCNS),
visited the Centre for Artificial
Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR),
Bengaluru, on 24 December
2024. There was a briefing by Dr
Rituraj Kumar, OS & Director,
CAIR, followed by a discussion
and demonstration of various
technologies developed by CAIR.

CVRDE, Chennai Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan during his visit at CAIR, Bengaluru

As a part of the 80th Staff

Course, a team of 130 Defence
officers, including international
student officers from Defence
Service Staff College, made their
maiden visit to Combat Vehicles
Research & Development Estt.
(CVRDE), Chennai, on January
15, 2025. Shri J Rajesh Kumar,
OS & Director CVRDE, and Shri
T Panneer Selvam, Sc 'G' & AD,
addressed the student officers.
During the visit, the Defense Officers from Defence Service Staff College, during their maiden visit to CVRDE, Chennai
Service Staff students had a
meeting with senior scientists
and understood the progress of
technology-intensive projects
carried out by CVRDE in the
development of Armored Fighting
Vehicles (AFVs) for the Indian
Army. The visiting students
evinced keen interest towards
the advanced systems developed
by CVRDE and witnessed the in-
house (R&D) facilities of CVRDE.
The visit was coordinated by
Dr Dhanalakshmi S Sc ‘G’, AD
(PC&HR), and the AFV Team. Rear Admiral K Venkatram exploring DEAL's products during his visit at
DEAL, Dehradun

DEAL, Dehradun on December 13, 2024. He was the developed products, the
greeted by Ms Neeta Kandpal, Sc ‘G’ technological advancements,
aa Rear Admiral K Venkatram, & Officiating Director, along with and the future roadmap. Rear
ACNS (CS, NCO), VSM, visited the senior scientists of the laboratory. Admiral Venkatram provided
Defence Electronics Applications They gave a presentation that insightful inputs for all naval
Laboratory (DEAL), Dehradun, highlighted the history of DEAL, projects. He elaborately discussed

31 | FEBRUARY 2025
VISITS DRDO NEWSLETTER

the Joint Services Waveform and

showed interest in UCS, HEAUV,
and ISR projects of DEAL.
aa Dr Aarti Dewan Gupta, IDAS,
IFA (R&D) ECS, visited the
Defence Electronics Applications
Laboratory (DEAL), Dehradun,
on 16 December 2024. Shri LC
Mangal DS & Director DEAL
welcomed her, accompanied by
members of the Management
Council and senior scientists from
the laboratory. A presentation
was given to her regarding an Dr Aarti Dewan Gupta showing interest in DEAL products during her
visit at the laboratory
overview of DEAL projects and
the roadmap ahead. After the
presentation, IFA (R&D) ECS
had an interaction with senior
scientists and project directors
regarding various aspects of
procurement cases/financial cases.
aa Dr Bishwajeet Choubey,
Director, DCWE, accompanied
by Dr Anil Khurana, CCE North,
visited the DEAL, Dehradun, on 19
December 2024. They were warmly Dr Bishwajeet Choubey with Dr Anil Khurana at DEAL, Dehradun
received by Ms Neeta Kandpal,
Sc 'G' & Officiating Director, GE
(MES), the Estate Manager (EMU),
and senior officers from the Works
Group. During the visit, the Group
Director briefed the Director,
DCWE on ongoing projects and
proposed critical infrastructure
development, including a G+7
building and multi-story parking
facility. Dr Choubey and Dr
Khurana assured their full support
for these initiatives, fostering
strong collaboration among
DCWE, MES, EMU, and DEAL.
Dr Manoranjan Patri, Sc 'H' during his visit at DIBT, Mysuru
DIBT, Mysuru
Technology (DIBT), Mysuru, highlighting the institute’s
aa Dr Manoranjan Patri, Sc 'H' on 12 December 2024. The infrastructure, mission, and
(Retd) OS & Chairman, CEPTAM, distinguished visitors were warmly ongoing R&D activities, including
along with Ms Sunita Vadhera, received by Dr R Kumar, Centre DIBT’s significant contributions
Director, CEPTAM, visited the Head, DIBT. Dr Kumar delivered to the Gaganyaan project of the
Defence Institute of Bio-defence a comprehensive presentation Human Space Flight Centre

| FEBRUARY 2025 32
VISITS DRDO NEWSLETTER

(HFSC) under ISRO. The visitors

also engaged in an interactive
session with DRTC staff of DFRL.
aa Lt Gen JK Gera, Commandant,
ASC Centre & College, Bengaluru,
visited the DIBT, Mysuru, on
November 26, 2024. The esteemed
visitor was warmly received by Dr
R Kumar, Centre Head, and DIBT.
Dr Kumar provided Lt Gen JK Gera
with an in-depth overview of the
institute’s infrastructure, mission,
and ongoing project activities
through a detailed presentation. Lt
Gen JK Gera also visited the DIBT
exhibition hall, where he showed
keen interest in the institute’s
diverse range of research and
Lt Gen JK Gera, during his visit at the DIBT, Mysuru
development activities. The
exhibition highlighted innovative
technologies and advancements
in food science and bio-defence
tailored for defence applications.

DMSRDE, Kanpur
aa An industrial visit was
organised at the Defence
Materials and Stores Research
& Development Establishment
(DMSRDE), Kanpur, on 23
December 2024. One hundred
seven senior secondary students,
along with their seven faculty
Industrial visit at DMSRDE, Kanpur
members from Government
High School, Bithoor, Kanpur,
participated in the visit. They
were briefed about the various
R&D activities being carried out
by the laboratory. The students
also visited various technical
divisions of the establishment.
Dr Gobardhan Lal, Sc ‘F’ and
his team coordinated the visit.
aa One hundred senior secondary
students from UP Kirana Seva
Samiti Balika Vidyalaya, Kanpur,
visited the DMSRDE, Kanpur, on Students from UP Kirana Seva Samiti Balika Vidyalaya, Kanpur, at DMSRDE, Kanpur

33 | FEBRUARY 2025
VISITS DRDO NEWSLETTER

December 23, 2024. The students,

along with their 5 teachers, were
briefed about the various R&D
activities being carried out by
the laboratory. DMSRDE also
demonstrated various products
and technologies in the field of
non-metallic materials to the
students. Dr Gobardhan Lal, Sc
‘F’ and team coordinated the visit.
DRDO HQrs, Delhi
Air Marshal SP Dharkar,
PVSM, AVSM, Vice Chief of the
Air Staff (VCAS), visited the DRDO
Archival and Retrieval System
(DARS) facility, located at DRDO
Air Marshal SP Dharkar exploring the DARS facility at DRDO HQrs
HQrs, on 22 November 2024.
VCAS expressed keen interest in
the state-of-the-art digitization
and microfilming technologies in
place. The visit was coordinated
by the Scientific Advisor to Chief
of the Air Staff (SA to CAS), Smt
Asha Tripathi, ensuring a smooth
and informative experience for
the Vice Chief. During his visit, he
was briefed by Shri Sunil Sharma,
OS & Director DPARO&M, who
provided insights into the facility’s
capability and advancements in
including live demonstration. He
highlighted the facility's focus on
Dr Aarti Dewan Gupta during his visit at IRDE, Dehradun
modernizing archival processes as
a key area of progress. Mr Saurabh December 2024. She was ISSA, Delhi
Shukla, Sc ‘F’ and Mr CP Meena, welcomed by Dr Ajay Kumar, OS
Lt Gen Devendra Sharma,
Sc ‘F’ also explained the salient & Director IRDE. Dr Ajay Kumar
AVSM, SM, GOC-IN-C, HQ
features of the server software and presented major R&D initiatives
(ARTRAC), visited the Institute
microfilming part of the facility. taken by IRDE and technologies
for Systems Studies & Analyses
developed by IRDE. He also
IRDE, Dehradun briefed about various products of
(ISSA), Delhi, on 20 December
Dr Aarti Dewan Gupta 2024. Senior scientists at ISSA
IRDE that have been developed
(IDAS), IFA (R&D) in the office briefed about ISSA's projects
and inducted into the Services.
of the DG (ECS) cluster, visited and activities. This was followed
Dr Aarti appreciated the efforts of
the Instruments Research & by a demonstration of products
IRDE in developing state-of-the-
Development Establishment developed by ISSA in the area of
art systems.
(IRDE), Dehradun, on 17 wargaming and simulation and a

| FEBRUARY 2025 34
VISITS DRDO NEWSLETTER

discussion on the way ahead for

future army projects.

PXE, Chandipur
Rear Admiral Rupak Barua,
DGNAI, from Naval Head
Quarters, New Delhi, visited
the Proof & Experimental
Establishment (PXE), Balasore,
during 10-12 December 2024.
During the visit, the flag officer
interacted with Dr PK Das
Gupta, Sc ‘G’ & Ofg. Director, and
senior officers of PXE, where the
admiral was briefed about proof Lt Gen Devendra Sharma, at ISSA, Delhi

and trial activities undertaken

at PXE. During the visit, the flag
officer witnessed the trial of the
indigenously developed 76/62
SRGM proximity fuze. Also, the
DGNAI visited technical areas of
PXE, i.e., firing points, the Naval
Armament Depot, the Weapon
Wing, the Naval Proof & Trial
Wing, and observation points.

SSPL, Delhi
Deputy Chief of Integrated
Defence Staff (PP&FD), Vice
Admiral Sanjay Vasayan, AVSM, Dr PK Das Gupta felicitating Rear Admiral Rupak Barua, during his visit at PXE, Balasore
NM, visited the Solid State Physics
Laboratory (SSPL), Delhi (MED,
CoS cluster), DRDO, Delhi, on 9
January 2025. Dr Meena Mishra,
OS & Director, SSPL, briefed
him on key R&D achievements,
ongoing projects, & futuristic
research initiatives. Deputy Chief
complimented the team’s efforts
and urged the scientific fraternity
to remain at the forefront for
evolving novel solutions to address
the modern-day requirements
in the field of semiconductor
technologies.

Vice Admiral Sanjay Vasayan during his visit at SSPL, Delhi

35 | FEBRUARY 2025
 DRDO NEWSLETTER
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