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GS Paper: Indigenization Of Technology

  • CSIR-NAL unveils High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS)

    haps

    Introduction

    • The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in Bengaluru, India, recently conducted the inaugural test flight of a solar-powered High-Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) vehicle, marking a significant stride in indigenous HAPS technology.
    • India now joins a select group of nations, including China, South Korea, and the UK, pioneering the development of HAPS for diverse applications.

    Test Flight Details of India’s HAPS

    • Prototype Description: NAL’s test featured a small-scale HAPS weighing 23 kilograms, boasting a wingspan of 12 meters.
    • Location: Engineers conducted the successful trial at the Challakere testing facilities in Karnataka state, soaring to an altitude of approximately 3 kilometers and sustaining flight for 8.5 hours.
    • Progress: Despite its scaled-down size, the prototype’s performance exceeded expectations, paving the way for future full-scale models.

    HAPS Technology Overview

    • Definition: HAPS represents a class of solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that operate autonomously in the stratosphere.
    • Features: These aircraft incorporate solar cells and batteries, enabling extended flights resembling satellite persistence without the need for costly rocket launches.

    Capabilities and Applications

    • Altitude and Endurance: HAPS can autonomously operate at altitudes of 18-20 kilometers for months or even years, offering persistent aerial monitoring and surveillance capabilities.
    • Strategic Uses: These platforms hold potential for applications such as border surveillance, disaster response, and communication network restoration.

    Future Development Goals

    • Milestone Objectives: NAL aims to achieve continuous flight for 24 hours in upcoming trials, further validating the aircraft’s energy storage and solar recharging capabilities.
    • Operational Deployment: India anticipates deploying refined HAPS technology for practical defense by 2027 purposes, particularly in border monitoring.

    Benefits and Challenges

    • Cost benefits: HAPS operate closer to Earth than satellites and do not require expensive rocket launches for deployment.
    • Flight Duration: Advanced HAPS can remain airborne for months or years with solar cell-powered battery recharging.
    • Advantages: HAPS offer advantages over traditional satellites, including lower deployment costs, modular payloads, and increased flexibility in targeting and redirection.
    • Obstacles: Challenges include navigating minimal stratospheric flight regulations and addressing unpredictable weather conditions at high altitudes.
  • The need to overhaul a semiconductor scheme

    Design-linked incentive (DLI) scheme - An analysis | PT's IAS Academy

    Central Idea:

    The Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme in India, designed to foster semiconductor design capabilities, faces challenges due to limited results and structural issues. The article suggests a comprehensive revamp, addressing key challenges, emphasizing the importance of the design ecosystem, and proposing a shift in focus to cultivate indigenous semiconductor design capabilities.

    Key Highlights:

    • The DLI scheme, part of the $10 billion Semicon India Program, has approved only seven start-ups, falling significantly short of the target to support 100 over five years.
    • India’s semiconductor strategy aims to reduce dependence on imports, build supply chain resilience, and leverage its comparative advantage in chip design.
    • The article underscores the need to prioritize the design stage for stimulating India’s semiconductor industry.

    Key Challenges:

    • The DLI scheme has witnessed lackluster results and low participation.
    • Barriers include restrictions on foreign funding and ownership for beneficiary start-ups.
    • Modest incentives and a challenging funding landscape impede semiconductor start-ups in India.
    • Concerns are raised about the nodal agency’s role, posing potential conflicts of interest.

    Key Terms:

    • Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme.
    • Semiconductor global value chain (GVC).
    • Foundry and assembly stages of the semiconductor GVC.
    • Electronic design automation (EDA) tools.
    • Production-Linked Incentive schemes.
    • Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL).
    • India Semiconductor Mission.

    Key Phrases:

    • “Cultivate semiconductor design capabilities.”
    • “Build supply chain resilience.”
    • “Delink ownership from semiconductor design development.”
    • “Shift focus to facilitate design capabilities for a wide array of chips.”
    • “Revise policy to boost financial stability and provide global exposure.”

    Key Quotes:

    • “Stimulating the design ecosystem is less capital-intensive than foundry and assembly stages.”
    • “The primary aim should be to cultivate semiconductor design capabilities in India.”
    • “Enhance the financial outlay of the scheme substantially to support this policy shift.”

    Key Statements:

    • The article critiques the DLI scheme for its limited results and highlights barriers hindering effectiveness.
    • Challenges faced by semiconductor start-ups, including funding issues and policy restrictions, are discussed.
    • The need for a revamped DLI scheme, focusing on broader objectives and increased financial support, is emphasized.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Reference to the Karnataka government’s Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL) as a potential model for an implementing agency.
    • Mention of the Union government’s recent statement emphasizing the importance of “India-designed chips.”

    Facts and Data:

    • Only seven start-ups approved under the DLI scheme, significantly below the target of supporting 100.
    • Modest incentives under the DLI scheme, capped at ₹15 Crore for Product DLI and ₹30 Crore for Deployment Linked Incentive.
    • The Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme is a part of India’s $10 billion Semicon India Program.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The article critically evaluates the current DLI scheme, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive and effective approach.
    • Concerns about the nodal agency’s role and potential conflicts of interest are highlighted.
    • The article stresses the significance of cultivating indigenous semiconductor design capabilities in India for sustained success.

    Way Forward:

    • Revise the DLI scheme to delink ownership, enhance financial incentives, and broaden the focus on semiconductor design capabilities.
    • Consider a new implementing agency, such as the Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL), for a more effective approach.
    • Emphasize the importance of cultivating indigenous semiconductor design capabilities in India for long-term success.
  • ISRO Successfully Tests Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell in Space

    Fuel Cell

    Introduction

    • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully tested a 100 W class Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell based Power System (FCPS) in space.
    • The FCPS was part of the POEM3 orbital platform, launched onboard PSLV-C58 on January 1, 2024.

    About FCPS Experiment

    • Primary Goal: The experiment aimed to assess the operation of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel cells in space and gather data for future mission designs.
    • Power Generation: During the test, 180 W power was generated using Hydrogen and Oxygen gases, providing valuable data on the performance of the power system.

    About Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cells

    Details
    Basic Principle Converts chemical energy from hydrogen into electrical energy, producing water and heat as byproducts.
    Key Components Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA)

    Platinum-based catalyst

    Gas Diffusion Layers (GDLs)

    Bipolar Plates

    Operation Hydrogen Oxidation: At the anode, hydrogen molecules (H2) are split into protons (H+) and electrons (e-).

    Proton Conduction: The PEM allows only protons to pass through to the cathode, blocking electrons.

    Electron Flow: Electrons travel through an external circuit to the cathode, creating an electric current.

    Oxygen Reduction: At the cathode, oxygen molecules (O2) from the air combine with the protons and electrons to form water (H2O).

    Heat Production: The reaction generates heat, which can be used for heating purposes in some applications.

    Types of Membranes Perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes (common)

    Hydrocarbon-based membranes (alternative)

    Advantages High power density

    Low operating temperatures (60-80°C)

    Zero emissions with pure hydrogen

    Applications in Space and Society

    • Multipurpose Space Use: Fuel cells are particularly suitable for human space missions, providing essential power, water, and heat from a single system.
    • Societal Benefits: They have significant potential for societal applications, including as replacements for conventional vehicle engines and in standby power systems.
    • Advantages over Batteries: Fuel cells offer range and refuelling times comparable to conventional engines and are expected to enable emission-free transportation.
  • Akash Missile System: India’s Iron Dome

    akash missile

    Central Idea

    • India demonstrated the firepower of its Akash surface-to-air (SAM) weapon system, where a single firing unit simultaneously engaged and destroyed four unmanned targets during the recent Exercise Astrashakti 2023.
    • Countries like Armenia, Brazil, and Egypt have shown interest in acquiring the Akash SAM.

    About Akash Missile System

    Details
    Development and Production Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), produced by Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL).
    Type Short-range Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM).
    Engagement Capacity Engages four aerial targets simultaneously at a range of 25 km from a single firing unit.
    Target Engagement Capable of targeting multiple threats concurrently in group or autonomous modes.
    Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM) Equipped to counter enemy jamming and evasion tactics.
    Mobility and Agility Configured on mobile platforms for rapid deployment and relocation.
    Operational Use In service with the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
    Range and Altitude Effective range of 4.5 km to 25 km, with an altitude range of 100 meters to 20 km.
    Physical Dimensions Length: 5,870 mm; Diameter: 350 mm; Weight: 710 kg.
    Automation and Response Fully automated with quick response from target detection to neutralization.
    System Architecture Open-system architecture for adaptability to current and future air defense environments.

    Comparison with Israel’s Iron Dome

    • Interception Capabilities: Akash is often compared to Israel’s Iron Dome due to its ability to intercept UAVs, smaller projectiles, helicopters, and aircraft.
    • Defensive Role: While similar to the Iron Dome, Akash is primarily designed for defense against larger aerial threats like aircraft, rather than small rockets.
  • INS Imphal: Everything you need to know

    ins imphal

    Central Idea

    • INS Imphal (Pennant D68), the third ship of the Visakhapatnam class stealth-guided missile destroyers, is set to join the Indian Navy.
    • Part of Project 15B, INS Imphal follows the lineage of the Delhi and Kolkata classes of indigenous destroyers.

    About INS Imphal

    Details
    Ship Name INS Imphal (Pennant D68)
    Class Visakhapatnam class stealth-guided missile destroyer (Project 15B)
    Commissioning Date Scheduled for December 26
    Builder Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDSL)
    Design Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau
    Propulsion System Combined gas and gas (COGAG) configuration with four gas turbines
    Maximum Speed 30 knots
    Range 4000 nautical miles
    Armament BrahMos surface-to-surface cruise missiles

    Barak-8 surface-to-air missiles

    127 mm main gun

    AK-630 30mm guns

    Torpedo launchers and anti-submarine rocket launchers

    Helicopter Facilities Can operate two multi-role helicopters (Sea King or HAL Dhruv)
    Strategic Features Stealth capabilities for reduced radar signature

    Advanced combat management system

    Total atmospheric control system (TACS) for protection against nuclear, biological, and chemical threats

    Significance Represents advanced naval warfare capabilities and strategic asset for the Indian Navy
    Tribute to Northeast India Named after the city of Imphal, honoring the strategic and historical significance of the Northeast region
  • Kavro Doma 360: World’s First Rifle-Rated Ballistic Helmet

    Kavro Doma 360

    Central Idea

    • Kanpur-based MKU Limited recently unveiled the Kavro Doma 360, world-first rifle-rated ballistic helmet at Milipol Paris exhibition.

    About Kavro Doma 360

    Description
    Indigenous Development Developed by MKU Limited in Kanpur, India, through indigenous research and development.
    Uniform Rifle Protection Provides uniform protection across all five head zones: front, back, left, right, and crown.

    Offers resilience against threats like AK-47 MSC, M80 NATO BALL, and M193 rifle bullets.

    Boltless Innovation The only boltless rifle protection helmet globally, eliminating bolts and metal components, reducing the risk of penetration upon impact for enhanced safety.
    Expanded Protection Area Features a boltless shell design, providing 40% more protection area against AK-47 assault rifles compared to conventional helmets.
    20mm Back Face Signature Maintains a Back Face Signature/Trauma of less than 20 mm when impacted by AK-47 bullets.

    Back Face Signature measures deformation due to high-energy bullet impact.

    Advanced Harness System Incorporates Dynamic Impact Technology for protection against direct and rotational/angular impacts, reducing concussions and brain injuries.

    Offers top-to-chin and side-to-side harness adjustment.

    Maximum Compatibility (with MACS) Ensures seamless integration with advanced head-mounted devices and combat equipment, adapting to the evolving needs of modern warriors.

     

  • Government must handhold semi-conductor industry

    What’s the news?

    • Moody’s report has brought to light a critical factor that could disrupt India’s semiconductor aspirations: climate change.

    Central idea

    • In December 2021, the Indian government launched the Semicon India Programme, allocating a substantial budget of Rs 76,000 crore for the development of a domestic semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. While this initiative aimed to position India as a prominent player in the global semiconductor market, it faces multifaceted challenges, as highlighted in a recent report by Moody’s, a global rating firm.

    Challenges highlighted in the Moody’s report

    • Climate Change Risks: The report points out that climate change can lead to damage to manufacturing facilities, disruptions in supply chains, and substantial financial losses in the semiconductor industry, potentially deterring investments.
    • Environmental Footprint: The semiconductor industry’s substantial environmental footprint is a challenge, with chip fabrication plants consuming large amounts of water, generating hazardous waste, and contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
    • Competitive Landscape: India’s emerging semiconductor sector faces competition from established global players who are already taking steps towards sustainability, making it essential for Indian semiconductor units to adopt sustainable practices to remain competitive.

    The Significance of Semiconductors

    • Technological Advancement: Semiconductors are the bedrock of technological progress, enabling innovations across industries. They underpin the development of advanced electronic devices, leading to continuous improvements in efficiency, performance, and functionality.
    • Information Processing: Semiconductors power the microprocessors and memory chips found in computers, smartphones, and digital gadgets. This processing capacity drives data analysis, artificial intelligence, and complex computations.
    • Consumer Electronics: Nearly all consumer electronic devices, from televisions to household appliances, incorporate semiconductors. These components enhance functionality, making these devices more user-friendly and efficient.
    • Clean Energy: Semiconductors are vital for renewable energy sources. They enable efficient energy conversion and management in solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage systems, promoting clean and sustainable energy solutions.
    • Healthcare Revolution: In the healthcare sector, semiconductors are crucial for medical imaging, diagnostic equipment, and wearable health monitoring devices. They empower healthcare professionals with accurate data for improved patient care.
    • National Security: Semiconductors are indispensable for defense and security applications, including radar systems, encryption technology, and surveillance equipment. They ensure the reliability and security of vital systems.
    • Space Exploration: Semiconductors are vital for space missions and satellite technology. They enable data collection, communication with Earth, and the operation of instruments, advancing humanity’s understanding of the cosmos.
    • Environmental Monitoring: Semiconductors are used in environmental monitoring systems, aiding efforts to assess and mitigate environmental issues such as air and water quality, climate change, and pollution.

    Industry Initiatives Toward Sustainability

    • Taiwan’s Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC): TSMC, one of the world’s largest chip manufacturers and a key supplier to tech giants like Apple, has taken a significant step by pledging to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This commitment reflects a proactive approach to reducing the environmental impact of semiconductor manufacturing.
    • Samsung and Intel: The article also notes that companies like Samsung and Intel, along with several European semiconductor firms, have reportedly started conducting greenhouse gas (GHG) audits. These audits are essential for understanding and quantifying the industry’s carbon footprint, with the goal of identifying areas for improvement.

    India’s Greenfield Advantage

    • Clean Slate: India’s semiconductor industry has the advantage of starting from a relatively clean slate. Unlike established semiconductor hubs that may have legacy issues, India’s greenfield centers can begin their operations with a fresh perspective and without the burden of historical environmental challenges.
    • Learning Opportunity: These greenfield centers in India can learn from the experiences of semiconductor companies in other parts of the world. They have the opportunity to incorporate global best practices right from the outset, making sustainability and environmental responsibility integral to their operations.
    • Smart City Programme: Many of India’s semiconductor hubs are planned as part of the government’s Smart City Programme. This planning approach involves creating modern, sustainable urban environments. As a result, these townships are more likely to incorporate eco-friendly and climate-resilient infrastructure and drainage systems.
    • Preventing Disruptions: The greenfield centers should prioritize strategies to prevent disruptions during extreme rainfall events. This proactive approach is important, considering the potential impacts of climate change, which can lead to increased rainfall and extreme weather events.

    Way forward

    • Learning from Global Best Practices: By learning from the experiences of established global players and incorporating best practices from the outset, Indian semiconductor units can enhance their sustainability quotient.
    • Regional Considerations: The government’s vision of establishing Dholera in Ahmedabad as a chip-making hub should be attuned to regional climate factors. Climate change is expected to exacerbate heat-related stresses in the region, making it crucial to factor in climate-resilient infrastructure.
    • Government Intervention: In light of Moody’s report, it is evident that the government must play a pivotal role in supporting the semiconductor industry. This includes investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, providing guidance to the industry, and encouraging semiconductor units to adopt sustainable practices.

    Conclusion

    • The Semicon India Programme holds the potential to propel India into the ranks of global semiconductor manufacturing leaders. However, this ambitious endeavor faces significant challenges, with climate change posing a formidable threat to its success. By taking proactive measures, India can navigate the treacherous waters of climate change and move closer to realizing its dream of becoming a chip-manufacturing hub.
  • [pib] Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) and Swavlamban 2.0

    Positive Indigenisation List

    Central Idea

    • Defence Minister unveiled the fifth Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) consisting of 98 items to be procured by the armed services from domestic suppliers over specified timelines.
    • Additionally, he launched the Indian Navy’s updated indigenisation roadmap, known as Swavlamban 2.0.

    What is Positive Indigenisation List (PIL)?

    • The Positive Indigenisation List consists of items that can only be procured by the Indian armed forces from domestic manufacturers, including those from the private sector or DPSUs.
    • This move is part of the government’s efforts to reduce the reliance on imported arms and promote indigenous manufacturing of defense equipment.
    • This concept was rolled out in the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020.
    • It emphasizes import substitution of components for major systems, vital platforms, weapon systems, sensors, and munitions that are expected to translate into firm orders within the next five to ten years.

    Items on the Indigenisation List

    • Diverse Range: The PIL includes a wide range of items such as futuristic infantry combat vehicles, articulated all-terrain vehicles, various types of unmanned aerial vehicles, precision kill systems for artillery, test equipment for guided weapon systems, radars, armour plates for helicopter cabins, automated mobile test systems, and more.
    • Strategic Importance: These items are crucial for bolstering the country’s defence capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign sources. They contribute to India’s quest for self-reliance in the defence sector.

    Swavlamban 2.0: Industry Challenges and Initiatives

    • 76 Challenges: At the Swavlamban 2.0 seminar, Defence Minister Singh also launched 76 challenges for industry participants under the 10th Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC-10) and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX).
    • Global Collaboration: The event marked the launch of two INDUS X challenges, a collaboration between iDEX and the U.S. Department of Defence, showcasing India’s commitment to fostering global partnerships for technological advancement.

    Vision of Self-Reliance

    • Navy’s Commitment: Indian Navy is committed to becoming fully self-reliant by 2047, aligning with India’s 100th Independence anniversary.
    • Strategic Importance: The COVID-19 pandemic and global conflicts have underscored the significance of self-reliance, especially in the defence sector. Dependence on external sources for defence needs is considered a strategic vulnerability that needs to be addressed.
    • Achievements: The Navy’s efforts in promoting indigenous innovation have yielded significant results, including technological agreements, partnerships with MSMEs and start-ups, and an expanding ecosystem of defence suppliers.

    Way forward

    • Future Goals: The Indian Navy has set ambitious targets to develop futuristic technologies in collaboration with domestic MSMEs and start-ups, aligning with its commitment to self-reliance.
    • Expanding Ecosystem: The Navy’s initiatives have brought over 100 new firms into the defence ecosystem, with procurement orders already signed and more in the pipeline.
    • A Strong Bharat: The vision is to build a force that represents a strong and developed Bharat, utilizing unique concepts and capabilities made in India for India.
  • INS Vindhyagiri and Project 17A

    vindhyagiri

    Central Idea

    • President’s launch of INS Vindhyagiri, the final vessel in the Project 17A (Alpha) frigates series, marked a significant milestone for India’s maritime strength and self-reliance.
    • The launch of INS Vindhyagiri, the sixth vessel in the Project 17A Frigates series, carries forward India’s naval legacy.

    About INS Vindhyagiri

    • INS Vindhyagiri is the sixth ship of the Project 17A Frigates series, showcasing India’s commitment to indigenous defense technology and self-reliance.
    • After INS Nilgiri, Udaygiri, Himgiri, Taragiri, and Dunagiri, INS Vindhyagiri derives its name from a mountain range in Karnataka.
    • These frigates are a follow-on class of the Project 17 (Shivalik Class) Frigates, integrating improved stealth, advanced weapons, and cutting-edge sensors.
    • It is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, India.

    Key features

    • Employs a cutting-edge propulsion system enabling speeds of over 28 knots, ensuring rapid response and agility in various operational scenarios.
    • Equipped with state-of-the-art stealth features, enhancing its ability to operate discreetly and minimize detection.
    • Over 75% of the equipment and systems used are sourced from indigenous firms, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

    Back2Basics: Project 17A

    • Project 17 Alpha frigates (P-17A) were launched by the Indian Navy in 2019.
    • The first stealth ship launched was the Nilgiri, launched in 2019.
    • The project was launched to construct a series of stealth guided-missile frigates, which are currently being constructed by two companies:
    1. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) and
    2. Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE).
    • These guided-missile frigates have been constructed with a specific stealth design, which has radar-absorbent coatings and is low-observable which can make its approach undetectable for the enemies.
    • The new technology also reduces the infrared signals of the ship.
  • Critical Jet Engine GE-414 Deal Signed

    jet engine

    Central Idea

    • During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official State visit to the United States, a significant agreement is likely to be announced.
    • The deal is expected to facilitate the transfer of at least 11 critical jet engine technologies.

    GE-414 Engine Deal

    • An agreement is expected between General Electric (GE), an American multinational corporation, and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) of India.
    • The agreement aims to enable the licensed manufacture of GE’s F414 engine in India for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk2.
    • The F414 engine is part of GE’s suite of military aircraft engines and has been utilized by the US Navy for over 30 years.
    • It boasts a track record of over 1,600 engines delivered, accumulating more than 5 million engine flight hours across various missions.

    Features and Advancements of the F414 Engine

    • The F414 engine belongs to the thrust class of 22,000 lb or 98 kN and incorporates advanced technologies such as Full Authority Digital Electronic Control (FADEC).
    • GE’s highlights the engine’s use of advanced materials and cooling techniques, improving performance and extending component life.

    F414-Powered Jets and their Significance

    • Eight nations, including the US, have aircraft powered by F414 engines, such as the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA18G Growler, as well as Saab’s Gripen E/F fighters.
    • The manufacturer’s website suggests the potential use of F414 engines for emerging platforms like the Korean KF-X.

    India-Specific Version: F414-INS6

    • The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) of the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) selected the F414-INS6 engine for the LCA Tejas Mk2.
    • The LCA Tejas currently employs the GE-404-IN20 engine, which is a derivative of the GE-404 engine developed in the 1970s.

    Future Prospects: Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)

    • F414 engines may also be considered for the prototypes and initial batch of India’s fifth-generation fighter aircraft, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
    • AMCA is a potential recipient of the engine, although it might face competition from other engine manufacturers.

    Significance of the Deal

    • Only a few countries, including the US, Russia, the UK, and France, possess the necessary technology and metallurgy for manufacturing engines that power combat aircraft.
    • Despite India’s pursuit of self-reliance in critical technologies, the country has not yet achieved mastery in manufacturing such engines.