Pune: In a strategic step toward strengthening India’s defence capabilities and self-reliance, Symbiosis Skills and Professional University (SSPU) launched a pioneering B Tech in Defence Technology program.
The course aims to equip students with cutting-edge technical skills in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Autonomous Systems, and System Engineering tailored for defence and aerospace sectors.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Manish Bhardwaj, Technical Advisor to the Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), emphasized the significance of defence innovation in achieving the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
“Operation Sindoor and DRDO’s contributions – from BrahMos to Akash missiles – have underscored the importance of indigenous defence technologies. We now need to bridge the gap in skilled human resources and push for more innovation from academia and industry,” he said.
Industry-Academia Collaborations Strengthened
The launch event also witnessed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed between SSPU and two industry partners – Vasundharaa Geo Technologies and DSA Electro and Design – to facilitate practical exposure and research-driven learning for students.
Dr Swati Mujumdar, Pro-Chancellor, SSPU, stated, “As India accelerates its journey towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, this B Tech in Defence Technology program will provide students with future-ready skills and enable them to contribute meaningfully to national security and innovation.”
High-Growth Sector with Global Opportunities
Major General Vinay Handa (Retd) shared key insights about the global defence industry, pegged at USD 2.5 trillion, with over 1 million job opportunities. He noted that India already manufactures 65% of its defence equipment domestically, supported by 430 defence companies and around 16,000 MSMEs.
Adding to the discussion, industry leaders such as S M Vaidya (Godrej Aerospace), Sushil Kumar (Tata Technologies), and Shirish Deshmukh (DEMA) emphasized the program’s relevance in nurturing innovation, R&D, and startups within the defence ecosystem.
The event also received virtual messages of encouragement from Lieutenant General V G Khandare and Air Marshal Bhushan Gokhale (Retd), highlighting the program’s alignment with the strategic needs of the Indian armed forces.
B Tech in Defence Technology: Preparing India’s Youth for Strategic Defence Roles
SSPU‘s B Tech in Defence Technology program is uniquely positioned as India’s first skill-based defence technology curriculum at the undergraduate level. With active collaboration from over 250 companies, SSPU brings real-world industrial experience into the classroom, ensuring students are career-ready from day one.
“This is not just a degree – it’s a mission to build a stronger, more secure India,” concluded Dr Mujumdar.
