DRDO Celebrates 'Sushree' on the occasion of International Women’s Day at Historic PXE Laboratory in Chandipur
Balasore, March 9:(Krushna Kumar Mohanty) The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) celebrated International Women’s Day on March 9 at the Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE) in Chandipur, its oldest laboratory.
The programme was inaugurated by Sameer V. Kamat, Secretary, Defence Research and Development, along with Anu Garg, Chief Secretary of Odisha.
The event was attended by Geetanjali Dash, Vice-Chancellor of Berhampur University; Prateek Kishore, Director General of the Armament and Combat Engineering Cluster; K. Rajalakshmi Menon, Director General (Aeronautical Systems); and Subodha Kumar Nayak, Director of PXE. Director Generals of various technology clusters, laboratory directors, and eminent women scientists and researchers from across the country also participated in the programme.
The event focused on strengthening scientific advancement and research opportunities for women at all levels within DRDO.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sameer V. Kamat emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment that allows women researchers to realise their full potential in science and engineering.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg praised the significant role played by women scientists in DRDO and noted that their work contributes meaningfully to national security and defence preparedness.
Dr K. Rajalakshmi Menon appreciated the dedication and achievements of women scientists and technical officers, acknowledging their valuable contributions to scientific and technological development. Prof. (Dr) Prateek Kishore also highlighted the outstanding role of women professionals in DRDO and reiterated the organisation’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful and empowering workplace where women can learn, lead and excel.
In his address, PXE Director Subodha Kumar Nayak underlined the crucial role of the laboratory in strengthening India’s defence capabilities and recognised the important contributions of women researchers working at PXE.
Established in 1895, the Proof and Experimental Establishment became part of DRDO in 1958. The laboratory is responsible for proving and experimental testing of military guns, ammunition and armaments that are either under development or currently used by the armed forces.
