DRDO creates directorate for image projection
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has created a new “Directorate of Public Interface (DPI).” The need for the directorate has arisen out of the successful maturation of DRDO projects and the new realities of market driven structure of the world arms market.
In past DRDO had relied in Public Relation cells which used to function in DRDO labs. The structure was useful is disseminating project news as DRDO was building up its capabilities. Since DRDO has matured into a world class R& D entity, the creation of the directorate is a step in the right direction.
Speaking to Frontier India, Mr. Suranjan Pal, Director of DPI said “DPI of DRDO has the responsibility of planning and coordinating the activities of Image Building of DRDO. It is the authorised channel for disseminating information about programmes, policies and activities of DRDO and its labs through print media and internet. DPI will bridge the gap between DRDO and outside agencies like services, bureaucracy, political leadership, industry, academia /S&T deptts, students and general public. DPI also has mandate of planning the Corporate Identity and building work culture and value system for a globally respected and visible Brand – DRDO. DPI can be reached at phone number 011 23007636.”
In absence of such a entity, a lot of misinformation was generated on the projects like Arjun Tank, Light Combat Aircraft, missile programmes etc. In some cases like Arjun Tank and LCA Tejas; apologists for imports, vested interest and ignorant journalists had pronounced these projects failures even before they matured. One of the major tasks of DPI will be bridging the gap between DRDO, Defence production units and the users.
The DPI of DRDO has its HQs at Delhi with offices at DRDO Bhawan and DESIDOC, with a separate provision for budgetary allocation. DESIDOC will provide all support for functioning of the Dte. DPI will have country-wide network with Regional PR centers initially at 4 other locations (Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Dehradun and Chandigarh). It will be in constant touch with the Addl PIO, DPR (MoD) to share information and utilise their nation-wide PR set-up. DPI is re-evaluating the DRDO website which will be the core of its internet strategies. Says Mr. Suranjan Pal ” DRDO website www.drdo.org , has large traffic. We are implementing system where the latest happenings of DRDO will be added in a “Whats new” or appropriately named column. This channel will add value along with press Information Bureau website.”