As Indian Army is celebrating 77th Army Day on 15th January 2025, it has made significant strides in technology absorption, reflecting its commitment to operational excellence and self-reliance. In 2023, the Indian Army declared the “Year of Technology Absorption” and has now extended this initiative for another year, aligning with the Ministry of Defence’s declaration of 2025 as the “Year of Reforms.”

These efforts are part of the broader “Decade of Transformation” (2023-2032), aimed at redefining India’s defence capabilities.

Why is Indian Army Driving In-house Innovation?

Operating across varied terrains – from the icy heights of the Himalayas to the deserts of Rajasthan and jungles of the Northeast – the Indian Army faces unique operational challenges. Different terrain, weather and operational conditions demand various specific requirements. This necessitates a culture of continuous innovation to enhance operational, logistical, and training capabilities.

In addition, the character of war is constantly evolving and Indian Army needs to be prepared to deal with all future challenges. The recent global conflicts have underscored the need for indigenous battlefield solutions, pushing the Indian Army to not just absorb but also develop cutting-edge technologies.

How is Indian Army Promoting an Innovation Culture? 
  1. Inno-Yoddha Annual Competition: Since 2014, the Indian Army has been conducting its annual innovation competition, rebranded as Inno-Yoddha in 2023. This initiative provides a platform for soldiers to showcase indigenous solutions addressing capability voids.
  2. Grassroots Development: Innovations often originate at the unit level using limited resources and are fielded at formation levels. The best ideas reach the Inno-Yoddha finals, where they are evaluated for their potential to address operational gaps and their technological uniqueness.
  3. Recognition and Proliferation: Exceptional innovations are recognised at the national level by the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) and proliferated across formations. Some are integrated into equipment specifications for future procurements, ensuring long-term impact.

Key Technological Milestones Achieved so far

  •  Breakthrough Innovations: Notable achievements include the ASMI 9mm Machine Pistol, Multi-Purpose Octacopter, Wireless Electronic Detonation Circuit (WEDC), Vidyut Rakshak (IoT-based generator monitoring), and Agni Astra (precision munitions system).
  • Technology Readiness and Upscaling: Innovations undergo extensive trials for ruggedisation and technological enhancements in collaboration with academia and start-ups, funded through the Army Technology Board (ATB) and Indigenisation Research & Development (IR&D) funds.
  • Successful Inductions: Over the past year, 37 innovations have been deployed, 36 are undergoing upgrades, and 25 have received intellectual property rights (IPR). Some innovations have been merged with ongoing projects to enhance product quality.
How are Innovators Incentivised?
To foster a robust innovation ecosystem, the Indian Army has implemented several measures:
  • Recognition: Innovators are awarded COAS or GOC-in-C commendation cards, and exceptional innovators have received prestigious awards such as the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM).
  •  Policy Reforms: Innovators can now opt to pursue technological advancements without forgoing career progression, with pathways created for continued growth in technical roles. There are personnel who have been allowed to be on deputation even after they have got promoted or their period of deputation lapsed, the period was increased in such cases.

Collaboration and Technology Transfer

To accelerate mass production and induction, the Indian Army has streamlined its technology transfer processes. A notable example is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT) at IIT Delhi. This partnership enables the selection of production agencies through competitive processes, ensuring rapid technology commercialisation. The revenue generated from license fees and royalties contributes to the Consolidated Fund of India.

Vision for the Future: Aligning with the “Year of Reforms”
The Indian Army’s blueprint for the next year focuses on:
  1. Enhanced Technology Partnerships: Expanding collaborations with academia, start-ups, and industry to fast-track innovations.
  2. Integrated Reforms: Aligning innovations with the Ministry of Defence’s reform initiatives to enhance procurement processes and operational readiness.
  3. Wider Adoption: Extending successful innovations to other defence forces and paramilitary organisations. Notably, the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) have shown interest in procuring innovations like Vidyut Rakshak.

Building Towards a Self-Reliant India

The Indian Army’s emphasis on technology absorption and innovation is pivotal in achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat. By promoting indigenous solutions, fostering a robust defence manufacturing ecosystem, and aligning with national reforms, the Indian Army is redefining operational capabilities and setting new benchmarks in defence modernization.

As the “Decade of Transformation” unfolds, the Indian Army remains committed to shaping a future where innovation, resilience, and self-reliance drive India’s military prowess.