​Consider the following statement about "Swavlamban 2023":
1. It was 2nd Edition of the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation (NIIO) Seminar.
2. 'Swavlamban 2023’ was conducted on 04 October 2023 to 05 October 2023.
3. It was conducted in Pune, Maharashtra
4. In June 2023 Prime Minister launched the 75 challenges for the start-ups/ MSMEs as a part of the 'SPRINT' initiative.
Which of the statement given above is/are correct?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Statements 1 and 2

Explanation:

• 'Swavlamban 2023' marked the second edition of the Indian Navy's NIIO Seminar. ​
• The seminar was held over two days, from October 4 to October 5, 2023. ​
• The event took place in New Delhi. ​
  The 75 challenges under the 'SPRINT' initiative were launched by the Prime Minister during the first edition of the seminar in July 2022. ​

Information Booster:

Swavlamban 2024 – Curtain Raiser Press Conference

• The Curtain Raiser Press Conference for Swavlamban 2024, the third edition of the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) Seminar, was held on October 22, 2024, in New Delhi.
  
• The event emphasized the Indian Navy’s dedication to innovation and indigenisation, aligning with the national goal of strengthening self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

SPRINT Scheme – Promoting Indigenous Defence Technologies

• SPRINT stands for Supporting Pole-Vaulting in R&D through Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), NIIO, and Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC).
• It is a key initiative to accelerate the development of niche defense technologies by domestic companies.
• Launched by the Prime Minister in July 2022, as part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations.

Key Features and Objectives

• Developed under a collaborative framework involving:
• Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO)
• Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO)
• iDEX and TDAC
• Aims to induct at least 75 new indigenous technologies/products into the Indian Navy by August 2023.
• The initiative is part of 75 technology challenges floated by the Indian Navy to mark 75 years of independence.
• Envisions a transformation of the Indian Navy from a "Buyer’s Navy" to a "Builder’s Navy", thereby boosting Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defense production.

Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO):

• Launched by the Ministry of Defence in August 2020 to promote innovation and indigenisation in the Indian Navy for achieving self-reliance in the defence sector.

Three-Tier Framework of NIIO

1. Naval Technology Acceleration Council (N-TAC):
• Apex body integrating both innovation and indigenisation efforts.
• Provides strategic direction and high-level policy guidance for naval technology initiatives.
2. Working Group under N-TAC:
• Responsible for execution and coordination of approved projects.
• Bridges the gap between policy and implementation.
3. Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC):
• Focuses on the rapid induction of emerging and disruptive technologies.
• Works to fast-track R&D and ensure timely integration into naval operations.