The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is set to take the lead in a thematic session focused on “Electronics & Semiconductor Manufacturing” during the ongoing Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025. This significant event is taking place at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital. The session will occur on Wednesday and will be chaired by Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO.
Semiconductors are essential components in modern technological ecosystems, enabling vital systems across healthcare, communication, transportation, defense, and space exploration. The DRDO has achieved notable advancements in semiconductor technology, including the development of indigenous production methods for 4-inch Silicon Carbide wafers and the fabrication of Gallium Nitride High Electron Mobility Transistors capable of up to 150W, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defence.
Other distinguished DRDO officials will participate in various panel discussions, including Suma Varughese, Distinguished Scientist and Director General of Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems & Cyber Systems; Dr. Ramalingam Balamuralikrishnan, Director of the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory in Hyderabad; and Dr. Somna Mahajan, Scientist-G at the Solid State Physics Laboratory in Delhi.
The three-day conclave, themed “Viksit Bharat 2047 – Pioneering Sustainable Innovation, Technological Advancement, and Empowerment,” was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 3. The event is organized collaboratively by 13 ministries and departments under the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. During the opening session, the Prime Minister introduced a substantial Research Development and Innovation Scheme Fund, valued at Rs 1 lakh crore, aimed at fostering a private sector-driven research and innovation ecosystem and advancing India”s status as a global hub for science and technology.
Efforts are actively underway to encourage research and development initiatives within the private sector. The conclave will feature a series of talks, panel discussions, presentations, and technology showcases, creating a collaborative environment for researchers, industry leaders, and young innovators to enhance the science and technology landscape.
As a key organizer, DRDO will guide the thematic session on “Electronics & Semiconductor Manufacturing,” with Dr. Samir V Kamat presiding over this Technical Session on November 5, 2025. ESTIC 2025 aims to bring together over 3,000 participants from academia, research institutions, industry, and government sectors, including Nobel laureates, prominent scientists, innovators, and policymakers.
Discussions at the conclave will center around 11 critical areas, which encompass Advanced Materials & Manufacturing, Artificial Intelligence, Bio-Manufacturing, Blue Economy, Digital Communications, Electronics & Semiconductor Manufacturing, Emerging Agriculture Technologies, Energy, Environment & Climate, Health & Medical Technologies, Quantum Science & Technology, and Space Technologies.
