Uttar Pradesh is making significant strides to bolster its defence and space technology sectors. The Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) will implement three critical projects under the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS), funded by the Union Ministry of Defence. These initiatives aim to address key shortcomings in the current defence technology testing infrastructure.

Project Locations and Objectives

The projects, located in Kanpur and Lucknow, are designed to enhance India’s defence technology testing capabilities. By addressing fundamental shortcomings, these efforts are crucial for improving the state’s defence infrastructure.Funding and Support
With a total allocation exceeding Rs 117 crore, the DTIS projects in Uttar Pradesh will receive substantial financial backing. The Union government is providing a 75% grant, while the Uttar Pradesh administration, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, will contribute the remaining 25%. This funding model reflects the collaborative effort to enhance defence capabilities.

Focus on Advanced R&D
The DTIS aims to conduct advanced research and development to improve testing technologies. It will provide recommendations and guidance for upgrading testing facilities. Ensuring quality and standards in defence production is a key objective.

Boosting Indigenous Defence Production
A primary goal of DTIS is to strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing. The scheme places special emphasis on supporting MSMEs and startups, effectively addressing the current deficiencies in defence testing infrastructure. These projects will be a part of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor.Key Investments

Several significant investments will support these initiatives:

• MIDHANI (Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited) will establish a mechanical and material testing facility in Lucknow with an investment of over Rs 40 crore.
• Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will invest over Rs 31 crore in a communication testing facility at IIT Kanpur.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will set up an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) testing facility at IIT Kanpur.

Management and Oversight
These schemes will operate through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), managed by a five-member team. This structure ensures dedicated and focused management of the projects.

The DTIS aims to ensure quality and standards in defence production. By providing robust testing facilities, the scheme seeks to bolster indigenous defence production capabilities and support domestic companies. The primary focus is to boost indigenous defence manufacturing with a special emphasis on MSMEs and startups, addressing the current deficiencies in defence testing infrastructure.

In a TOI report, UPEIDA officials highlighted the importance of the DTI scheme, stating, “The DTI scheme will play a crucial role in India’s self-reliance initiative.” This sentiment underscores the significance of these projects in enhancing India’s defence and space technology capabilities.

Through these initiatives, Uttar Pradesh is poised to become a significant hub for defence and space technology. The collaborative efforts of the Union and state governments, along with key industry players, will significantly enhance the state’s defence infrastructure, supporting India’s broader self-reliance mission.

(With inputs from TOI)