DRDO Chairman highlights efforts to boost India’s defence research capacity

Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Secretary of Department of Defence R&D Samir V. Kamat on Saturday (February 14, 2026) said that the organisation was working towards enhancing intellectual capital and scientific advancements through five newly established labs and 15 new DRDO centres that work on underwater awareness and space awareness.

Speaking after he was conferred an honorary doctorate at the special convocation of SRM University-A.P., the defence scientist encouraged young talent in universities to work towards indigenous defence technology, strategic foresight, and advanced scientific weaponry that can position India as a global leader.

Delivering the convocation address, Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal highlighted the transition of India’s industrial strength and development. He urged the graduating students to “increase your strength, minimise your weakness, see the opportunity and convert that to success”.

Founder Chancellor T.R. Paarivendhar, Pro-Chancellor P. Sathyanarayanan, Vice-Chancellor Ch. Satish Kumar, Registrar R. Premkumar and members of the governing body, Board of Management and Academic and Research Council were present.