SRM University-AP confers Honoris Causa on DRDO chief Dr Samir V Kamat

Amaravati: SRM University-AP conferred the prestigious Honoris Causa degree upon Dr Samir V Kamat, secretary, department of defence R&D and chairman of DRDO, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to India's defence research and technological advancement.Under Dr Kamat's leadership, indigenous defence research witnessed major breakthroughs in missile systems, aerospace platforms, unmanned technologies and next-generation materials, significantly advancing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Accepting the honour, Dr Kamat expressed gratitude to the university and said, "SRM University-AP carved a niche for itself by providing transformational learning experiences to students and scholars."Highlighting DRDO's future roadmap, he spoke about strengthening intellectual capital through 5 newly established laboratories and 15 new DRDO centres focusing on underwater and space awareness. He urged young researchers to contribute to indigenous defence technology and strategic scientific innovation.The special convocation was held in the presence of chief guest Arjun Ram Meghwal, Union minister of state for law and justice and parliamentary affairs, along with founder chancellor Dr TR Paarivendhar, pro-chancellor Dr P Sathyanarayanan, and vice-chancellor Prof Ch Satish Kumar.Addressing students, Meghwal encouraged them to convert opportunities into success and play a key role in transforming India into a developed nation. University leaders reiterated their commitment to academic excellence, innovation and nation-building, announcing plans to launch a programme in defence engineering to prepare youth for serving a secure and sovereign India.