PUNE: A maiden seminar on ‘Challenges and Prospects of Self-reliance in Indian Defence Requirements’ was organised at the tri-services Military Institute of Technology, Girinagar, Khadakwasla, which was attended by delegates from the Armed Forces and the industry. 

The keynote address was delivered by Lt Gen Subrata Saha (Retd), DG, Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). Other prominent speakers who participated in the seminar included Dr Gopalji Malviya, Maj Gen AK Channan, ADG PP (ADB), Hemalatha K, GM (SP) BEL, Col Rajinder Bhatia (Retd), CEO, Bharat Forge and Maj Gen Mrinal Suman (retd). Delivering an interactive inaugural address, the Commandant, Maj Gen AK Sapra, highlighted the typical challenges in equipping the Armed Forces, the need for self-reliance and opportunities in the defence sector for the industry. He also brought out the initiatives taken up and envisioned the role of the institute towards emerging as an active participant in the indigenisation process.

An exhibition was also conducted at the venue wherein certain industries displayed products and systems relevant to the Armed Forces. Another highlight of the event was the MoU signed with MIT, Pune, to enable better cooperation between the institutes towards imparting knowledge and encouraging studies in defence related fields. A trophy to be awarded for the ‘Best Project’ at MIT was also instituted by the Commandant, MILIT.”