Dr. Vijay Kumar Saraswat is a distinguished scientist and strategic leader whose pioneering contributions have shaped India’s defence and strategic research landscape. A former Secretary, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), he holds an ME from the Indian Institute of Science and a PhD from Osmania University.

He has led the indigenous development of numerous critical defence systems, including the Prithvi, Dhanush, Prahaar, and Agni-5 missiles, the two-tier Ballistic Missile Defence system, Light Combat Aircraft Tejas (IOC), and the nuclear submarine INS Arihant. Under his leadership, India advanced in long-range subsonic cruise missiles, advanced radar and command networks for national capital defence, and cyber security R&D for both offensive and defensive capabilities.

Beyond defence, Dr. Saraswat has driven research in alternative energy, spearheading initiatives in clean coal, high-efficiency solar, bioenergy, and hydrogen-based energy systems. He established the Cyber Security Research and Development Centre and guided strategic projects for sustainable national growth.

He currently serves as Chairman, Research Advisory Council, IOCL R&D, and has previously been Homi Bhabha Chair Professor. A recipient of the Padma Shri (1998) and Padma Bhushan (2013), he has been awarded honorary doctorates by more than 25 universities for his exceptional contributions to science and national security.