Swavlamban 2024: Advancing Naval Innovation and Indigenisation

The Curtain Raiser Press Conference for Swavlamban 2024, the third edition of the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) Seminar, took place in New Delhi on October 22, 2024. Chaired by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff (VCNS), the event highlighted the Navy’s commitment to showcasing significant advancements in innovation and indigenisation aimed at bolstering India’s defense capabilities. Scheduled for October 28-29, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, Swavlamban 2024 promises to be a larger and more impactful gathering.

Focus on Aatmanirbharta

The VCNS elaborated on the Navy’s ongoing efforts toward achieving Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defense technologies, marking a significant evolution from previous initiatives. This year’s seminar will include a range of activities such as the unveiling of challenges, discussions on niche technologies, and the release of the Swavlamban 3.0 Document.

Special Task Forces

In a move to further enhance technological capabilities, the Navy has established two special task forces led by Rear Admirals. These teams will focus on integrating and inducting niche technologies to address capability gaps and explore advanced technologies. This initiative complements the Navy’s existing Technology Development Accelerator Cell (TDAC), showcasing a proactive approach towards modernizing naval operations.

Key Highlights of Swavlamban 2024

Theme: The event revolves around the theme “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation,” reflecting the Navy’s dedication to fostering innovation to tackle modern warfare challenges.

Activities Planned: Swavlamban 2024 will feature a variety of activities, including the unveiling of challenges, the release of the Swavlamban 3.0 Document, domain-specific discussions on niche technologies, funding for the innovation ecosystem, and recognition of innovators.

Hackathon Challenges: The VCNS introduced the inaugural Hackathon Challenges, a national-level competition designed to tackle real-world operational challenges through innovative technological solutions, enabling participants to collaborate across various technological domains.