As India is gearing up to become self-reliant in technologies in the defence sector, there is an urgent need to incorporate HCD principles, techniques, methodologies, and practices. Indian defence forces need not only good technology but also good human-centered technology. The emphasis on HCD for defence will provide this pathway. In order to make HCD relevant for the Indian defence sector, there is a need to comprehend a broader understanding of HCD that incorporates design, human factors, and human systems integration. Such a broad conception of HCD will also require a renewed effort from traditional design schools to cater to the unique challenges of Indian Defence at the sectoral level. Further, there is a need to incorporate HCD at various levels of sectoral operations ranging from multi-functional teams to strategic level of government program directorates. In addition, various stakeholders, ranging from end-users to program managers, require an understanding of the value of HCD for the defence forces. This policy brief identified a few major challenges and barriers that stop the inclusion of HCD in the defence sector. Based on these issues, 30 recommendations were provided to integrate HCD-based principles, practices, and insights to support a multi-level sectoral inclusion for Indian defence. The sectoral engagement of HCD will ensure that the dimension of human centricity is integrated into Indian Defence.


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