India, March 6 -- India's drive for self-reliance in defence technology has long been spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Established in 1958, DRDO has played a crucial role in developing indigenous defence systems, reducing India's dependence on foreign military imports.

Over the years, it has been credited with landmark achievements, including the Agni and Prithvi missile systems, the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, and key missile defence and electronic warfare systems. However, frequent delays in delivering critical military platforms and technologies have raised concerns about India's operational readiness in an evolving security landscape.

However a closer examination of DRDO's project timel...