A two-day seminar titled 'Demystifying Defence Procurement, iDEX, TPCR and Testing Procedures for MSMEs and Start-ups' jointly conducted by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) and Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS) concluded in New Delhi on June 12, 2026. The event represented a significant step towards strengthening industry participation in the defence acquisition and innovation ecosystem, bringing together over 150 start-ups and MSMEs along with 10 venture capitalists and defence industry stakeholders.
The seminar sessions provided a comprehensive compendium of procedures and practical insights covering the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP), iDEX framework, indigenization initiatives, Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap (TPCR), as well as certification and user trial processes. Participants gained enhanced clarity on end-to-end procurement cycles, prototype development pathways, Technology Readiness Levels, and mechanisms for collaboration with defence organizations.
The event facilitated direct interaction between industry participants and subject matter experts from key defence institutions, fostering deeper understanding of regulatory, technical and procedural frameworks. Structured question-and-answer engagements enabled the translation of complex processes into actionable guidance for emerging innovators and manufacturers.
Key outcomes included the consolidation of procedural knowledge into a structured framework tailored for MSMEs and start-ups, alongside the strengthening of linkages within the defence innovation ecosystem. Deliberations highlighted opportunities for import substitution, indigenous development and expanded industry participation in capability development initiatives. The workshop concluded with renewed emphasis on advancing self-reliance in defence manufacturing through sustained industry engagement, streamlined processes and deeper integration of start-ups and MSMEs into the national defence innovation architecture.