LUCKNOW – The Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) is set to bolster India's defence sector and space technology capabilities by implementing three ambitious projects under the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS).
These projects, located in Kanpur and Lucknow, aim to address critical gaps in the nation's defence technology testing infrastructure.
With a total allocation exceeding Rs 117 crore, the DTIS in Uttar Pradesh will be jointly funded by the Union government (75%) and the Uttar Pradesh state government (25%).
The scheme will focus on advanced research and development to enhance testing technologies, provide recommendations for upgrading existing facilities, and ensure quality and standards in defence production.
A key objective of the DTIS is to strengthen indigenous defence production, particularly for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups. By providing robust testing facilities, the scheme aims to empower domestic companies and reduce reliance on foreign sources for critical defence technologies.
Under the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor initiative, UPEIDA will collaborate with prominent organizations to implement these projects.
Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI), a leading player in India's space missions, will establish a mechanical and material testing facility in Lucknow with an investment of over Rs 40 crore.
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will invest more than Rs 31 crore in a communication testing facility at IIT Kanpur, while Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will set up an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) testing facility at the same location.
Each project will be managed through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) overseen by a dedicated five-member team. UPEIDA officials believe that the DTIS will play a pivotal role in India's self-reliance initiative, Atmanirbhar Bharat, by fostering innovation and growth in the domestic defence sector.
Additional Open-Source Information
- The Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS) is a flagship program of the Ministry of Defence, launched in 2020.
- The scheme aims to promote self-reliance in defence testing and create a robust ecosystem for defence manufacturing in India.
- The Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UPDIC) is a major project aimed at establishing a world-class defence manufacturing hub in the state.
