CDIIC joins hands with IIT Madras for defence product development
COIMBATORE: In a significant move towards fostering innovation and collaboration in the defence sector, the CODISSIA Defence Innovation and Atal Incubation Centre (CDIIC) in Coimbatore has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras.
The signing of the MoU, which occurred a few days ago, aims to bolster the capabilities of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the region, empowering them to undertake new product development specifically tailored for the defence sector. Coimbatore, known for being a prominent industrial hub, is expected to see a surge in innovative defence product development through this collaboration.
According to the terms of the MoU, CDIIC is slated to become a crucial manufacturing partner for the Research & Development wing of IIT Madras, collaborating with various Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). In the initial phase, CDIIC has identified four products of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), designed by IIT Madras, for indigenisation through the CDIIC Defence Innovation Hub (CDIIC-DIH).
This collaborative effort will not only facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise but will also pave the way for a student exchange programme with IIT Madras. Additionally, the MoU will extend its reach to potential startup engagements with industries in Coimbatore, fostering a dynamic ecosystem of innovation.
The signing ceremony witnessed the presence of key figures, including Dr Mahesh Panchagnula, Dean of Alumni and Corporate Relations; Dr Chandramouli Padmanabhan, Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering; Dr Ratna Kumar Annabattula, Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, all from IIT Madras. P Ponram, Director; and Rear Admiral Deepak Bansal VSM (Retd), Strategic Advisor of CDIIC, who also holds the position of Professor of Practice in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Madras, were also present during the signing of the MoU.
This collaboration is poised to empower CDIIC, enabling it to play a pivotal role in bringing more business opportunities to the industries in Coimbatore. CODISSIA, representing the Coimbatore District Small Industries Association, continues to be a driving force in facilitating technological advancements and industry growth in the region.
