At the 2026 IEEE International Conference on Electronic Systems and Artificial Intelligence Applications (ICESAIA-2026) in Hyderabad, Dr. Jagannath Nayak, Director General (Missiles & Strategic Systems), DRDO, delivered a thought-provoking address highlighting the critical role of indigenous semiconductor technology in building a truly Atmanirbhar AI ecosystem.
"You may have advanced software and AI algorithms, but without indigenous semiconductor chips, self-reliant AI cannot become a reality."
Dr. Nayak traced India's AI journey from the establishment of DRDO's Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR) under the visionary leadership of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam to today's rapid advances in semiconductor technology that are transforming AI capabilities.
He also called upon engineering students and faculty to:
? Collaborate closely with DRDO scientists and researchers.
? Move beyond classroom learning and embrace innovation.
? Become job creators instead of job seekers through entrepreneurship and technology-driven startups.
? Focus on practical, problem-solving education from the very first day of engineering.
The inspiring address reinforced the importance of stronger partnerships between academia, industry and DRDO to accelerate India's leadership in semiconductors, artificial intelligence and strategic technologies.
?? Building Indigenous Technologies. Empowering Innovation. Strengthening National Security.
The International Conference on Electronic Systems and Artificial Intelligence Applications (ICESAIA 2026) concluded on a high note, bringing together eminent scientists, academicians, researchers, industry experts, and students to celebrate innovation, research excellence, and technological advancement.
The Valedictory Session was graced by Dr. Anupam Sharma, Outstanding Scientist & Director, Directorate of Special Projects (DSP), DRDO, as the Chief Guest, along with Dr. M. Raghavender Rao, Outstanding Scientist & Director, ASL, DRDO, and Dr. Vishwijit Thakar, Dean, Indrashil University, as the Guests of Honour.
In his inspiring address, Dr. Anupam Sharma shared valuable insights into the future of Space Security, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Twin Technologies, highlighting the importance of indigenous innovation in strengthening India's strategic capabilities.
Key highlights:
The session inspired participants to pursue research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration while contributing to Atmanirbhar Bharat through indigenous technologies and advanced engineering solutions.
ICESAIA 2026 concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening collaboration between academia, industry, and research organizations, paving the way for future innovations in Electronic Systems, Artificial Intelligence, and Strategic Technologies.
As part of ICESAIA 2026, Methodist College of Engineering & Technology successfully hosted an insightful Special Keynote Session featuring eminent scientists from India's premier defence research organizations.
The session featured engaging technical talks by:
• Sri R. Yadagiri (DLRL) – Communication Electronic Warfare and RF Counter Drone Systems
• Dr. Justina Geetha (ASL, DRDO) – Hypersonic Technologies
• Dr. Shivpal Singh (Programme Director, ASL, DRDO) – New Generation Anti-Tank Guided Missiles
The keynote lectures provided participants with valuable insights into cutting-edge defence technologies, inspiring students, researchers, and faculty with the latest advancements in electronic warfare, hypersonic systems, and missile technologies.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the distinguished speakers for sharing their expertise and making this session a memorable highlight of ICESAIA 2026.
Together, we continue to foster innovation, research, and technological excellence.
The Pre-Conference Workshop of the 2026 International Conference on Electronic Systems and Artificial Intelligence Applications (ICESAIA 2026) was successfully inaugurated today at the Seminar Hall, E-Block, Stanley College of Engineering & Technology for Women (SCETW), Abids, Hyderabad.
The workshop brought together academicians, researchers, industry experts, and students to explore the latest developments in Electronic Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Embedded Systems, Robotics, and emerging technologies.
The workshop serves as a curtain raiser to ICESAIA 2026, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and research organizations while promoting innovation and knowledge sharing.
We extend our best wishes to all participants for a productive learning experience and a successful conference.
Stanley College of Engineering & Technology for Women (Autonomous) and Methodist College of Engineering & Technology (Autonomous), in association with the Avionics Society of India, proudly inaugurated the International Conference on Electronic Systems and Applications of Artificial Intelligence (ICESAIA 2026) in Hyderabad.
The three-day international conference (16–18 July 2026) commenced in the distinguished presence of Padma Bhushan Dr. V. K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, Prof. Kumar Molugaram, Vice-Chancellor, Osmania University, senior DRDO scientists, academic leaders, industry experts, and eminent dignitaries.
Dr. V. K. Saraswat highlighted how Electronic Systems and Artificial Intelligence are driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution, transforming healthcare, agriculture, transportation, defence, and smart cities. He encouraged students to become innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs who will shape India's technological future.
Prof. Kumar Molugaram emphasized the importance of ethical and responsible AI, encouraging students and researchers to leverage Artificial Intelligence for societal progress while addressing challenges related to privacy, misinformation, and cybersecurity.
A remarkable 1,562 research papers were submitted from India and abroad, with selected papers being presented during the conference's technical sessions, making ICESAIA 2026 a vibrant platform for research, innovation, industry-academia collaboration, and global knowledge exchange.
Together, we are shaping the future through innovation, research, and excellence.
