The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): In New Delhi, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) kickstarted a two-day National Symposium and Industry Meet on ‘Emerging Technologies in Infrastructure Development’. The event, inaugurated by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, convened stakeholders from the Armed Forces, academia, industry, and DRDO to discuss innovative strategies aligned with the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
Shri Aramane stressed the imperative of achieving self-reliance across all sectors to tackle future challenges, ensuring employment opportunities for India’s youth. He underscored the criticality of self-sufficiency in defense, citing the unpredictability of geopolitics and the need for India to safeguard its interests independently. Emphasizing infrastructure development along the borders, he called upon infrastructure firms to contribute to bolstering security apparatus.
Highlighting the Government’s focus on border infrastructure, Shri Aramane urged private sector participation in strengthening infrastructure in border areas. He referenced the Vibrant Villages Programme and encouraged firms to establish dedicated sections focusing on development in remote regions.
The Defence Secretary applauded DRDO’s support to the private sector in Research & Development, advocating for collaborative innovation to enhance infrastructure development. He urged the industry to prioritize mass production of quality products and collaborate with academia to enhance workforce skills.
Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Dr. Samir V Kamat, emphasized infrastructure’s pivotal role in national development, stressing the importance of incorporating latest technologies and sustainable practices.
The symposium, attended by over 500 delegates, features technical sessions discussing emerging technologies in infrastructure development. It aims to inspire stakeholders towards realizing the government’s vision and fostering a promising future for infrastructure development nationwide. The event includes an industry-partner exhibition, showcasing cutting-edge technologies, and a student competition from premier engineering institutions.