New Delhi: The Madras Regional Purchase Unit (MRPU), under the Directorate of Purchase & Stores, Department of Atomic Energy, hosted a Vendor Development Programme on February 17, 2026 at DAE Nodal Centre, Pallavaram, Chennai. This event aimed to bolster local businesses, drive industrial growth through import substitution, and advance India's vision of self-reliance.
Event Highlights
The programme offered vendors a vital platform to sharpen their skills, acquire essential tools and expertise for competitive markets, network with scientific leaders, and uncover new opportunities to fuel India's economy.
Regional Director Dr. Kitheri Joseph opened the event, welcoming dignitaries, established vendors, and potential partners. She outlined MRPU's history in procuring for DAE units at Kalpakkam.
G. Sreekumar Pillai, Director, IGCAR Kalpakkam, served as the Chief Guest. In his inaugural address, he highlighted how the programme bridges technology gaps, fosters innovation, and aligns with the "Make in India" policy to achieve nationwide self-reliance. He urged vendors to invest in skill development, quality systems, digital documentation, and continuous improvement. He also noted that, as India progresses toward 2047, the strength of our technological ecosystem will be measured not only by major installations or flagship projects, but by the robustness of the supporting supply chain.
Ved Singh, Director of the Directorate of Purchase & Stores, delivered the keynote address, underscoring vendors' pivotal role in indigenisation through high-quality products and services that drive local economic growth. He emphasized reducing dependence on imports by developing and manufacturing in India to realize a Viksit Bharat in its true sense.
Dr. T. V. Krishna Mohan, Facility Director, BARC Facilities Kalpakkam, delivered a special address on the transformative national impact of structured vendor development. He emphasized that it builds technical excellence, a quality culture, and regulatory compliance. He further noted that the success of the nuclear industry rests firmly on the strength, reliability, and innovation of its vast vendor ecosystem, which designs, manufactures, tests, and delivers products for the sector.
Twenty user presentations spotlighted strategic equipment and instruments ripe for indigenous development, with vendors from various industries actively participating. Interactive sessions enabled direct engagement between vendors and scientists.
Dr. N. Subramanian, Head of DAE Incubation Centre–IGCAR and Director of AIC IGCAR Fast Foundation, highlighted the Incubation Centre's role in nurturing innovation.
This pioneering Vendor Development Programme emerged as a beacon of innovation, inspiring vendors to pursue excellence through valuable insights and enduring connections.
