Parliamentary panel urges DRDO to set clear targets and boost defence R&D
DRDO faces push for clearer project targets and higher defence R&D spending.
New Delhi: The parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence has called for tighter monitoring of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) projects, recommending clear targets and closer scrutiny of costs, timelines and technological progress.
The report, presented in Parliament on Friday, recommended that DRDO set clear and measurable key performance indicators (KPIs) for its projects. These should cover cost efficiency, technological maturity, project timelines and operational effectiveness.
The committee also recommended a regular benchmarking system to track the progress of defence projects. It called for details on project completion, fund utilisation and steps taken to prevent cost overruns in the government’s action-taken report.
Push for higher defence R&D spending
The committee called for greater investment in defence research and development to strengthen India’s domestic defence capabilities.
It recommended increasing the defence R&D budget over the next five years, saying higher funding would help India develop advanced technologies at home and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
The report also referred to a proposed ₹33,000-crore investment under a five-year R&D roadmap. It asked the Department of Defence Production to closely monitor the plan and ensure that it supports indigenisation.
The committee also noted the increase in the defence capital budget this year and linked it to Operation Sindoor, welcoming the government’s focus on strengthening defence R&D.
DRDO urged to strengthen workplace grievance system
The committee reviewed workplace grievance mechanisms for women at DRDO and called for stronger implementation of procedures under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act. It also highlighted the role of internal complaints committees, the sexual harassment electronic box and nodal officers at DRDO laboratories.
On ex-servicemen welfare, the panel noted measures such as financial assistance and legal aid. It reiterated its call for a study on additional educational and other support for the children, wards and widows of armed forces personnel.
ECHS digitalisation and NCC expansion
The committee welcomed the migration of Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) applications to the National Government Cloud. It recommended a time-bound plan to complete the migration, integrate stakeholders and launch a unified platform.
The panel also noted the expansion of the National Cadet Corps (NCC). The government has approved an additional three lakh cadet vacancies, with enrolment to be completed in phases between 2025 and 2028.
Overall, the committee stressed the need for better monitoring, clear targets and timely implementation across defence-related programmes.
