Certificate Program in R&D Management for the Scientists of Defence Research & Development Organization

Visakhapatnam, 26th August 2024: The Indian Institute of Management Visakhapatnam inaugurated a Certificate Program in R&D Management for the Scientists of Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO) on 26th Augst 2024. Thirty-Nine officers from 36 DRDO labs Spread across India are participating in the program.

Prof. B. Srirangacharyulu, the Program Director, extended a warm welcome to the participants and provided an overview of the training modules and program outcomes. He highlighted various modules covered in the program, including Concepts and Principles of R&D Management, Project Management, Simulation, Organizational Behaviour & Human Relations Management, R&D Processes, R&D Support Functions, Technology Management, Commercialization and Utilization, Nurturing Innovation & Creativity, and Risk Management.

Dr. Y. Sreenivas Rao, Director General of Naval Systems & Materials (NS&M), graced the event as the Chief Guest. In his inaugural address, he underscored the importance of fostering strong networks among scientists across the various DRDO labs. Dr. Rao emphasized that building and maintaining robust professional relationships is essential for driving innovation and generating groundbreaking ideas. He pointed out that collaboration across different labs can lead to the cross-pollination of ideas, which is often the key to solving complex challenges in research and development.

Dr. Y. Sreenivas Rao stressed the importance of effective conflict management within teams. He stressed that in high-stakes environments like DRDO, where the timely execution of projects is paramount, managing interpersonal conflicts is crucial. Dr. Rao highlighted that clear communication, mutual respect, and the delegation of responsibilities can significantly reduce delays and ensure smooth execution of projects.

Dr Shailesh Kumar Singh, Director, Directorate of Human Resource Development (DHRD), DRDO Head Quarters and professors from IIM Visakhapatnam graced the event.

Prof. Deepika Gupta, the Program Director, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing her gratitude to Dr.Y. Sreenivas Rao, the Chief Guest, for gracing the event, and to DRDO for providing this opportunity.