On December 22, 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to enhance collaboration in several critical areas, including research, education, training, and technology support, in line with India's vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and an increased focus on national security during Amrit Kaal.
The MoU was officially signed at South Block, New Delhi, by Dr. Chandrika Kaushik, the Distinguished Scientist and Director General (Production Coordination & Services Interaction) of DRDO, and Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N Patel, Vice Chancellor of RRU. The event was graced by Rajnath Singh, the Union Minister for Defence, alongside Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development and Chairman of DRDO. This gathering highlighted the strategic significance of the partnership.
The MoU's primary objective is to bolster India's self-reliance in defense and internal security technologies. By integrating technology development with academic research and operational insights, the collaboration aims to address both current and emerging security challenges. A significant focus is on enhancing India's strategic autonomy, especially concerning internal security responsibilities managed by agencies under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Rashtriya Raksha University, recognized as an institution of national importance under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has been designated by the University Grants Commission (UGC) as the Nodal Centre for Defence Studies. RRU offers robust capabilities in internal security studies, training, policy research, and capacity-building for security forces. This academic and training expertise will effectively complement DRDO's technological strengths, fostering a capable ecosystem for applied research and skill development.
As India's premier defense research and development organization, DRDO is tasked with creating indigenous technologies and defense systems for the Armed Forces and security agencies. Through this MoU, DRDO is set to provide system-level expertise, advanced technologies, and life cycle management experience to support internal security forces.
The MoU outlines that both entities will engage in joint research projects, PhD and fellowship programs, as well as specialized training and capacity-building initiatives tailored for security forces. The collaboration will also extend to studies on emerging operational challenges, technology gap analyses, and forecasting future needs. A significant aspect will involve managing the life cycle of DRDO-developed systems integrated into the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and other agencies under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Q1. What is the purpose of the MoU between DRDO and RRU?
Answer: The MoU aims to enhance collaboration in research, education, training, and technology support, promoting self-reliance in defense and internal security.
Q2. Who signed the MoU on behalf of DRDO and RRU?
Answer: Dr. Chandrika Kaushik signed for DRDO, and Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N Patel signed for RRU, with key government officials present.
Q3. How does this MoU align with Aatmanirbhar Bharat?
Answer: It supports India's goal of self-reliance in defense technologies, contributing to national security and strategic autonomy.
Q4. What key areas are covered under the collaboration?
Answer: The collaboration includes joint research projects, training initiatives, and studies on operational challenges and technology needs.
Q5. What role does RRU play in this collaboration?
Answer: RRU provides expertise in internal security studies and training, complementing DRDO's technological capabilities for a stronger defense ecosystem.
Question 1: What is the primary objective of the MoU between DRDO and RRU?
A) To enhance international collaboration
B) To strengthen India’s self-reliance in defense technologies
C) To improve infrastructure in defense sectors
D) To reduce defense spending
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Who was present during the signing of the MoU?
A) Prime Minister
B) Rajnath Singh
C) Chief of Defence Staff
D) Home Minister
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which institution is recognized as the Nodal Centre for Defence Studies?
A) Indian Institute of Technology
B) Rashtriya Raksha University
C) National Defence Academy
D) Defence Research and Development Organisation
Correct Answer: B
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