Chennai: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITy) and the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE) have formed a strategic partnership aimed at advancing technological innovations for defense applications. This collaboration is part of India's Self-Reliance initiative, which seeks to promote indigenous solutions for military use.

As part of the agreement, research institutes under MEITy handed over several indigenously developed products to MCTE, reinforcing India's commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in defense technology. The partnership will focus on key areas like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, chip design, 5G and beyond, strategic electronics, and communications, all of which are critical to the Indian Army's modernization.

This initiative builds on discussions held in the 2023 Dialogue between the former Minister of State for Electronics and IT and the Chief of Army Staff. It aims to accelerate joint research efforts and create an incubation ecosystem to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in defense technology.

Secretary of MEITy, S. Krishnan, emphasized the importance of empowering the armed forces with indigenous solutions. He appreciated the proposed CDAC Center of Excellence at MCTE and highlighted a new agreement with National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) to develop military training programs.

He also expressed strong support for the National Army Technology Research and Incubation Center, which will further drive innovation within the defense sector.