The Central government has extended the tenure of DRDO Chairman and Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D), Dr. Samir V Kamat, by another year, in a move aimed at ensuring continuity in leadership within one of India’s most crucial defence institutions. Known for his significant contributions to India’s defence research sector, Kamat will now remain in charge of the organisation until May 31, 2026.

Kamat to Continue as DRDO Chief Through May 2026

The Central government has decided to extend the tenure of Samir V Kamat, the head of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), by one more year. 

Kamat, a highly respected and distinguished scientist, was originally appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D) and Chairman of DRDO on August 25, 2022. 

Allowing him to serve for another year, his first extension was granted in May 2024.That extension was set to end this month.With this extension, he will continue to serve in his role until May 31, 2026. 

The decision was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and is in line with Fundamental Rule 56(d), a provision that allows the government to extend the service of senior officials if it serves the public interest.

This plays a crucial role in strengthening India’s defence capabilities as this is the second time his term has been extended.

This extension reflects the government’s confidence in Kamat’s leadership and the ongoing projects under his supervision. 

With this extension, he is expected to continue steering the organisation’s research and development efforts in critical areas of defence technology.

Now, the government has once again decided to retain him in these key positions, acknowledging the importance of continuity in leadership at the DRDO, which plays a crucial role in strengthening India’s defence capabilities.