DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)
DPSU-led defence innovation challenges for deeptech and hardware startups
- Funding amount
- ₹5L – ₹10Cr (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Defence Public Sector Undertakings (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (4 May 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The DRISHTI Challenges initiative, short for “DPSU-driven Research & Innovation for Strategic and High-impact Technology Integration,” is a defence innovation program led by multiple Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) in India. It aims to accelerate indigenous technology development by connecting real-world defence problem statements with innovators, startups, and technology developers.
The program features 101 problem statements sourced from major DPSUs like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE), and Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML). The challenges span advanced technologies including artificial intelligence, robotics, embedded systems, aerospace components, naval systems, electronic warfare, materials engineering, and manufacturing innovations.
Each challenge is owned, funded, and managed by the respective DPSU. Indicative development budgets range from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 crore, depending on the problem's complexity. This decentralized approach ensures alignment with operational needs and increases the chance of real-world deployment. The initiative emphasizes design-led innovation to reduce import dependency and strengthen self-reliance in defence technologies. Selected innovators receive financial support, access to domain experts, testing environments, certification pathways, and potential procurement opportunities.
Highlights
- Startups and innovators at any stage solving Defence PSU open challenges.
- 101 problem statements from major DPSUs like HAL, BEL, GRSE, and BEML.
- Funding from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 crore depending on the problem complexity.
- Focus on deeptech, hardware, AI/ML, aerospace, naval, electronics, and manufacturing.
- Access to domain experts, testing facilities, certification, and procurement opportunities.
- Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat by reducing import dependency in defence technologies.
Who can apply
The program is open to innovators, startups, and technology developers capable of solving defence problem statements. Applicants must align their solutions with one or more of the 101 listed problem statements. There is a strong focus on deeptech, hardware, AI/ML, aerospace, naval, electronics, and manufacturing domains. Entities should have the capability to design, develop, and prototype solutions, and be able to handle defence-grade engineering and testing requirements. There are no restrictions on startup stage or entity type, though the challenges are particularly suited for deeptech and hardware innovators.
DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
The most recent application window for DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) closed on 4 May 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected innovators receive financial support from the respective DPSU, with development budgets ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 crore. Beyond funding, they gain access to domain experts, testing environments, certification pathways, and potential procurement opportunities from DPSUs. This creates pathways for long-term collaboration and commercialization of indigenous defence technologies.
About the provider
DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) is offered by Defence Public Sector Undertakings, a government body. As a government-backed grant, it is publicly funded and open to eligible startups across India. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Who this is best for
DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹5L – ₹10Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered under DRISHTI Challenges?
Indicative development budgets range from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 crore, depending on the complexity and scope of the problem statement.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is May 4, 2026.
Who can apply for these challenges?
The program is open to innovators, startups, and technology developers who can solve the listed defence problem statements. There is no restriction on startup stage (early or growth) or entity type, but solutions must align with one or more of the 101 problem statements.
Which industries or sectors are covered?
The challenges span deeptech and hardware domains including artificial intelligence, robotics, embedded systems, aerospace components, naval systems, electronic warfare, materials engineering, and manufacturing innovations.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
The program does not specifically require DPIIT or MSME registration, but applicants must be capable of designing, developing, and prototyping defence-grade solutions.
Does the program take equity?
No, DRISHTI Challenges provide grants, so no equity is taken. The funding is non-dilutive.
What documents are needed to apply?
The specific list of documents is not provided, but applicants will likely need to submit a detailed proposal addressing the problem statement, technical approach, team credentials, and budget estimates. It is best to check the official application portal for requirements.
How and where can I apply?
Applications are submitted through the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) portal at idex.gov.in. You can find the DRISHTI Challenges under the relevant category.
What are the benefits beyond funding?
Selected innovators get access to domain experts from DPSUs, testing environments, certification pathways, and potential procurement opportunities, enabling long-term collaboration and commercialization.
Are there any state or location restrictions?
No state or location restrictions have been specified. Innovators from across India are welcome to apply.
Who offers DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)?
DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) is offered by Defence Public Sector Undertakings, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)
Not sure DRISHTI Challenges - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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