I am surprised by your observation. DRDO has always been well funded organization since its inception. It doesn't need Kalam for higher funds. On the contrary, Kalam's contribution was negative.
He did not allow MoD to purchase crucial missiles for the defence. Govt of India had an eye opener during the Kargil when they had neither missiles purchased them and nor DRDO delivered to them.
Development these technologies is shrewed integration of already available technologies and indigenous technologies developed. If one does not balance it the project is certainly doomed.
