In a written reply to question whether DRDO enjoys a huge amount of autonomy because of its strategic nature of work, he said, "DRDO is a subordinate organisation under the Department of Defence R&D in Defence Ministry and is governed by central government rules and regulations.
"Therefore, DRDO as an organisation does not enjoy any special powers or autonomy because of its strategic nature of work."
Revised delegation of financial powers of DG of DRDO was carried out in 2010 to address a long standing requirement and was done after due process and deliberation, he said.
"The process of exercise of these powers has been further rationalised and a corrigendum has been issued by Department of Defence (R&D) on November 21, 2012 as a partial modification to the earlier financial powers," Antony said.
In reply to a question on resignation of scientists from DRDO, he said, "A total of 637 scientists have resigned during 2007-2011 and 50 scientists up to October 31, 2012... Scientists who had resigned have indicated their personal or domestic grounds as the reasons for leaving DRDO."
However, it is assumed that increased opportunities or incentives available in other organisations and industries is the main reason of such resignation, he added. (More)