CRENS to Boost India’s security capabilities through indigenous technology and collaboration
The Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani Hyderabad has inaugurated the new Centre for Research Excellence in National Security (CRENS), aiming to enhance the nation’s security capabilities through indigenous technology development, joint research, skill development, and entrepreneurship.
CRENS will collaborate with key entities like DRDO, ISRO, DAE, the tri-services, paramilitary forces, police, defence PSUs, and industries to support India’s goal of becoming self-reliant in national security. The initiative aims to contribute to the nation’s strategic and economic growth, ensuring a secure and prosperous future, according to a statement from BITS Pilani.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by G Satheesh Reddy, former secretary of DD R&D, former chairman of DRDO, and former scientific adviser to the defence minister, who emphasised the importance of developing new technologies to combat asymmetric warfare. Reddy highlighted the advantage of CRENS being located at the Hyderabad campus, which enables collaboration with numerous institutions of national importance in the region.
CRENS will focus on three strategic verticals: offering hybrid courses to enhance the skills of professionals in the national security domain, conducting research to provide practical solutions for service personnel, and promoting innovation by encouraging startups in defence, space, and other strategic areas.
V. Ramgopal Rao, Vice Chancellor of BITS Pilani, stated, “National security research and innovation require much more emphasis, and we are very proud to have a dedicated centre here at BITS Pilani Hyderabad. By bringing together key stakeholders in the national security domain, CRENS aims to advance research, support innovation, and enhance the skills of professionals, making the country self-reliant in security science and technology.”
