New Defence R&D Centre Launches at IIT-Kharagpur

The Manekshaw Centre of Excellence for National Security Studies and Research was inaugurated on October 23, 2023, in Kolkata. This initiative aims to unite various premier institutions, including IITs, IISc, IIITs, and NITs, to advance academic and research activities focused on defence technology.

The concept for this centre was developed by Lt Gen (Dr) Subrata Saha and Sukumar Nandi, an alumnus of IIT-Kharagpur. During the inauguration, Lt Gen Saha emphasized the necessity of collaborative efforts in developing future technologies for warfare. “Developing future technologies in warfare requires collaborative efforts of the entire nation,” he stated, highlighting the importance of joint initiatives in the field.

Leadership and Focus Areas

Director Suman Chakraborty expressed that IIT-Kharagpur will spearhead initiatives in key areas such as hardware security, artificial intelligence in defence, and entrepreneurship development. This targeted focus aims to enhance the capabilities of India’s defence sector through cutting-edge research and innovation.

The establishment of the Manekshaw Centre represents a significant step towards integrating academic research with national security needs. By pooling resources and expertise from multiple institutions, the initiative seeks to address critical challenges in defence technology. This collaborative approach is expected to foster an environment conducive to innovation and practical solutions.

The centre’s creation aligns with India’s broader goals of enhancing its defence capabilities through technological advancement. As nations increasingly rely on sophisticated technologies in conflicts, centres like this one are crucial for maintaining strategic advantages.

With renowned institutions collaborating on this platform, the Manekshaw Centre is poised to become a hub for research that not only advances military technology but also promotes entrepreneurial ventures related to national security. This initiative stands to benefit the defence sector and contribute to the overall technological landscape of the country.

The launch of the Manekshaw Centre marks a pivotal moment for defence research in India, reflecting a commitment to securing the nation’s future through innovation and collaboration.