iDEX Initiative: Innovations for Defence Excellence

Context: iDEX-DIO (Defence Innovation Organisation) has inked an MoU with EdCIL (India) Limited to foster the development of dual-use cutting-edge technologies, linking defence expertise with emerging ed-tech solutions, driven by the new ASPIRE (Accelerating Strategic Progress in Research and Education) program.

About iDex Initiative

• iDex Initiative was launched in 2018.
• Implementing Body: Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) under the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, India.

Objectives of iDEX

• Rapid Development: Facilitate the quick development of indigenized technologies to meet defence needs.
• Engagement with Startups: Encourage collaboration and co-creation with innovative startups in the defence sector.
• Empower Technology Co-Creation: Promote a culture of co-innovation within the Defence and Aerospace sectors.

Funding and Support

• Grants Available:
  • Up to ₹1.50 crore for projects.
  • Up to ₹10 crore under the iDEX Prime initiative.
• Support Framework: Includes the Support for Prototype and Research Kickstart (SPARK) framework to facilitate research and development.

Related Initiatives of the iDEX Scheme

Defence India Startup Challenges (DISC)

• Purpose: Launched to address specific problems faced by the Armed Forces, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and Ordnance Factories (OFB).
• Structure: Startups and innovators are invited to provide solutions to various problem statements issued by the Ministry of Defence.
• Funding: Winners receive grants for prototype development through the SPARK framework, with amounts up to ₹1.5 crore.

ADITI Challenges

• Aims to develop innovative technologies for the Defence sector.
• ADITI 2.0: Recently launched, featuring 19 challenges from armed forces and allied agencies, focusing on areas like:
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Quantum Technology
  • Military Communication
  • Anti-drone Systems
  • Adaptive Camouflage
• Funding: Offers grants up to ₹25 crore, targeting critical technological advancements.

Medical Innovations and Research Advancement (MIRA) Initiative

• Part of DISC, MIRA focuses on developing medical technologies tailored for the armed forces.
• Introduces targeted challenges to address the unique medical needs within military environments.

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