Sherry Gaur, Program Executive at iDEX, writes to pvt players who got their funds
As India continues to strive towards becoming a global leader in innovation and technology, the government has taken several initiatives to support and promote the growth of startups and small businesses. One such initiative is the Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) program, which aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the defence sector. Under this program, private players have been granted funds to develop cutting-edge technologies for the defence industry.
As the Program Executive at iDEX, I am delighted to see the enthusiasm and dedication of the private players who have received these funds. It is a testament to the potential of our country’s talent and the government’s commitment to promoting indigenous innovation. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the recipients of iDEX funds and encourage them to make the most of this opportunity.
The iDEX program was launched in 2018 with the aim of promoting innovation and self-reliance in the defence sector. It provides a platform for startups and small businesses to collaborate with the Indian defence industry and develop innovative solutions for the country’s defence needs. The program has received an overwhelming response, with over 900 applications and 58 startups being selected for funding in the first round.
I am proud to say that the iDEX program has already made significant strides in promoting innovation and creating a conducive ecosystem for startups in the defence sector. The funds provided to the private players are not just financial support, but also a vote of confidence in their ideas and capabilities. It is now up to the recipients to utilize these funds effectively and bring their innovative ideas to life.
The defence sector is a highly specialized and complex industry, and it requires a deep understanding of the sector’s needs and challenges. I urge all the private players who have received iDEX funds to conduct thorough research and engage with the defence industry to gain a better understanding of their requirements. This will not only help in developing solutions that are relevant and effective but also foster a strong partnership between the private players and the defence industry.
Moreover, I would like to emphasize the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among the recipients of iDEX funds. The program provides a unique opportunity for startups and small businesses to work together and leverage each other’s strengths to develop innovative solutions. I urge all the recipients to embrace this spirit of collaboration and work towards a common goal of strengthening India’s defence capabilities.
The iDEX program also provides a platform for startups and small businesses to showcase their products and solutions to the defence industry. I encourage all the recipients to make the most of this platform and use it as a springboard to launch their products in the market. The program also offers mentorship and networking opportunities, which can prove to be invaluable for the growth and success of the recipients.
In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that the iDEX program is a golden opportunity for private players to make a significant impact in the defence sector. The funds provided are not just a means to an end, but a stepping stone towards creating a self-reliant and technologically advanced defence industry in India. I am confident that with the right attitude and approach, the recipients of iDEX funds will not only succeed but also pave the way for a brighter future for our country.
I wish all the recipients of iDEX funds the very best and look forward to seeing their innovative solutions contribute to the growth and development of the Indian defence sector. Let us work together towards making India a global leader in innovation and technology.






