What is IDEX Scheme

Imagine having a groundbreaking idea that could transform India’s defence capabilities—but you just need the right support to bring it to life. That’s exactly where the iDEX – Innovations for Defence Excellence scheme steps in.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how iDEX works, who can benefit, and why it’s becoming a game-changer for India’s innovation landscape. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an engineer, or just curious about how defence startups are gaining momentum in India—this is a story worth following.

IDEX Scheme

Launched in May 2021, the iDEX – Innovations for Defence Excellence scheme is a powerful step towards strengthening India’s defence ecosystem. The initiative has a dedicated budget of ₹498.78 crore spread over five years (2021–22 to 2025–26). It aims to support the dreams and innovations of nearly 300 startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators. In addition, it will work closely with 20 partner incubators to help turn these ideas into reality.

iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) works through the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) to support bold and smart ideas. It offers financial grants of up to ₹1.5 crore, and in some cases, up to ₹10 crore under the iDEX Prime scheme. These funds help turn innovative ideas into real defence technologies.

Whether you are a startup founder, a small business owner, or an individual with a big dream, iDEX is here to support you. It provides funding through the Defence India Startup Challenges (DISC) and the Open Challenge. Both are part of the SPARK (Support for Prototype and Research Kickstart) framework.

The iDEX scheme isn’t just about promoting innovation and new technology—it also opens doors for startups and small businesses to work with the Indian Armed Forces.

Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020

According to the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020, our defence forces can now procure solutions through innovative programs like:

(a) Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX): This initiative supports projects from startups, MSMEs, and other innovators that involve low capital investment but offer high-impact solutions. It’s a chance for small businesses to make a big difference in national defence.

(b) Technology Development Fund (TDF): Managed by DRDO, this fund backs technology projects that tap into the strengths of Indian industries—especially MSMEs and startups. The goal is to boost domestic capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign technology.

In simple terms, if you’re an innovator or a growing business with a great idea, the iDEX and TDF schemes are real opportunities to bring your vision to life—while playing a part in strengthening our nation’s security.

The iDEX program (Innovations for Defence Excellence) is a special project started by the Government of India to support new ideas in defence. But who actually manages and runs it?

Who Manages IDEX?

iDEX is handled by an organisation called the Defence Innovation Organization (DIO). This organisation was set up by the Ministry of Defence, under the Department of Defence Production. It’s not a company that makes profit. It was formed as a ‘not-for-profit’ company under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013. That means its main goal is to help and support innovation, not to earn money.

Two important government defence companies came together to create this organisation:

1. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
2. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)

Together, they are known as Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs).

Now, here’s how it works:

The DIO gives policy advice and overall guidance, like a mentor. iDEX works as the action team. It carries out all the activities and plans needed to encourage innovation in India’s defence sector.

So, in short, iDEX is like the hands that build and test new ideas, and DIO is like the brain that gives the direction.

What is the Aim of the iDEX Scheme?

The Government of India started the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) Scheme to boost new and smart ideas in the field of Defence and Aerospace. Here’s what it aims to do:

• Support fast and local development of new technologies – so that our Defence and Aerospace forces get the latest tools and systems in less time.
• Encourage young and creative startups to join hands with the Defence sector – helping both sides work together and come up with better solutions.
• Promote teamwork in technology and innovation – so that people from different backgrounds can co-create smart technologies for our country’s safety.

Benefits of iDEX Scheme

SPARK Grant (Support for Prototype and Research Kickstart):
iDEX offers financial support of up to Rs. 1.5 crore (and even up to Rs. 10 crore under iDEX Prime!) to startups and MSMEs. This money helps them develop new ideas into working models or prototypes, especially in areas under the Defence India Startup Challenge (DISC) and Open Challenges.

Support from Partner Incubators:
iDEX works with partner incubators — special centres that guide and support startups. Here’s what they do:

• Give mentorship and expert advice to help startups grow.
• Run training programs, like business accelerators and incubators, to make startups stronger and more prepared.
• Spread awareness about defence innovations among school and college students, encouraging more young minds to participate.

iDEX Matters for India’s Defence Future:

• It helps in the fast development of new and original (indigenized) technologies for India’s defence and aerospace sectors.
• It builds a strong partnership between startups and the defence sector, promoting co-creation and fresh thinking.
• It creates a culture of innovation, where defence and aerospace sectors work together with young creators to build the future.

Who Can Apply for the SPARK Grant?

If you have an idea for a new invention or project and want support to bring it to life, the SPARK Grant might be just what you need. Here’s who can apply:

• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, officially recognizes startups.
• Indian companies registered under the Companies Act (1956 or 2013), especially Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as defined under the MSME Act, 2006.
• Individual innovators – yes, even students, researchers, or anyone with a unique idea can apply! But before receiving the grant, they must register as a startup.

This initiative encourages young minds, like yours, to dream big and take the first step towards turning innovative ideas into real-world solutions.

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Conclusion

The iDEX – Innovations for Defence Excellence scheme is not just a government initiative; it’s a launchpad for India’s brightest minds to shape the future of national security. By offering funding, mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate directly with the Indian Armed Forces, iDEX opens the doors for startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators to bring their breakthrough ideas to life.

Reference: www.ddpmod.gov.in