A recent report from October 29, 2025, highlights India’s Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative as a key pillar in the nation’s defence innovation landscape. According to the report, iDEX has awarded 650 innovation and development contracts valued at around $344 million (₹3,000 crore), fostering a dynamic ecosystem involving over 350 start-ups and 100 MSMEs. Launched in 2018, the initiative plays a vital role in supporting indigenous capabilities aligned with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision by enabling innovation spanning AI surveillance, unmanned systems, encryption communication, propulsion technologies, and miniaturised guidance systems. The report underscores iDEX as both an incubator and accelerator by seamlessly connecting innovators with the Indian Armed Forces and research agencies. The program’s integration with Make in India helps secure long-term supply chain goals and drives self-reliance. The initiative also supports spin-off benefits in civilian sectors such as disaster management, cybersecurity, and energy, marking a transformative phase in India’s defence ecosystem and technological independence. The Ministry of Defence continues to back this innovation highway with funding, partnerships, and procurement pathways, empowering startups to convert ideas into operational assets.