The Government of India has approved a one-year extension for Dr. Samir V. Kamat as Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D). His new term will run from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026.

Key Points:

1. Second Extension:
   Dr. Kamat's tenure was first extended in May 2024, and this marks his second consecutive extension.

2. Appointment Details:
   He was appointed as DRDO Chairman and DDR&D Secretary in August 2022, with an initial retirement date of May 31, 2024.

3. Educational Background:
   Dr. Kamat holds a B.Tech (Hons) in Metallurgical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur and a PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from The Ohio State University, USA.

4. Professional Experience:
   He joined DRDO in 1989 and previously served as Director General of Naval Systems and Materials.

5. Contributions to DRDO:
   Dr. Kamat has led critical material programs and the development of advanced naval systems, contributing significantly to DRDO's capabilities.

This extension ensures continued leadership at DRDO during a pivotal time for India's defense research and development initiatives.