Prez's call to DRDO scientists

Hyderabad, Jan 1 (UNI) President Pratibha Patil today exhorted Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) scientists to take advantage of the research being undertaken worldwide in various areas even while working towards self-reliance.

Speaking after watching missile systems and defence technologies developed by the DRDO here, Ms Patil said DRDO institutions should look at interacting with internationally renowned scientists and research institutions to understand the global perspective on defence and defence production.

''To ensure that our Armed forces are not deprived of timely acquisition of new weapon systems, it is of critical importance that delivery targets are met on schedule.

''The time frame required for development of technology, production and subsequent induction of weapon systems into the Armed forces would need to be compacted.

''The DRDO has to carry this burden and I am confident that it has the capability to do so.'' Calling for fuller mobilisation of human capital and resources to create a vibrant defence industry, she wanted the DRDO to leverage partnership with domestic private sector in the development of high technology.

Similarly, the spin-offs from defence-related research could be shared with industry and revenues so generated ploughed back into the research, she added.

The President exhorted the DRDO to develop linkages with universities in the country with a view to attracting better talent to the organisation.

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