About iDex
- Launch Date: May 2021.
- Implementing Body: Defence Innovation Organization (DIO) under the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, India.
- Objectives of iDEX
- Rapid Development: Facilitate quick development of indigenized technologies to meet defence needs.
- Engagement with Startups: Encourage collaboration and co-creation with innovative startups in the defence sector.
- Empower Technology Co-Creation: Promote a culture of co-innovation within the Defence and Aerospace sectors.
- Funding and Support
- Grants Available:
- Up to ₹1.50 crore for projects.
- Up to ₹10 crore under the iDEX Prime initiative.
- Support Framework: Includes the Support for Prototype and Research Kickstart (SPARK) framework to facilitate research and development.
- Grants Available:
Related Initiatives of the iDEX Scheme
Defence India Startup Challenges (DISC)
- Purpose: Launched to address specific problems faced by the Armed Forces, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and Ordnance Factories (OFB).
- Structure: Startups and innovators are invited to provide solutions to various problem statements issued by the Ministry of Defence.
- Funding: Winners receive grants for prototype development through the SPARK framework, with amounts up to ₹1.5 crore.
ADITI Challenges
- The ADITI initiative aims to develop innovative technologies for the Defence sector.
- ADITI 2.0: Recently launched, featuring 19 challenges from armed forces and allied agencies focusing on areas like:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Quantum Technology
- Military Communication
- Anti-drone Systems
- Adaptive Camouflage
- Funding: Offers grants up to ₹25 crore, targeting critical technological advancements.
Medical Innovations and Research Advancement (MIRA) Initiative
- It is part of DISC, MIRA focuses on developing medical technologies tailored for the armed forces.
- It introduces targeted challenges to address the unique medical needs within military environments.