DAC Clears Rs 1.10 Lakh Crore Defence Procurement
India's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved major military purchases worth Rs 1.10 lakh crore, focusing on indigenous technology.
Source: GNews Indian MilitaryThe Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, recently approved Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals totaling Rs 1.10 lakh crore. This significant procurement drive aims to boost India's defence capabilities and promote self-reliance under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. A remarkable 98% of this procurement will be sourced from Indian industries, emphasizing indigenous design, development, and manufacturing. The approved proposals include various defence platforms and systems, which will enhance the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces. This move is expected to create substantial employment opportunities within the domestic defence sector and reduce India's reliance on foreign defence imports. The DAC's decision underscores the government's commitment to modernizing the military with advanced, domestically produced equipment.
This news is crucial for competitive exams, especially for UPSC GS Paper III (Security) and SSC General Awareness. It highlights India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative in defence, focusing on indigenous manufacturing and reducing import dependency. Aspirants should understand the role of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), the financial outlay, and the strategic implications for India's defence sector and economy. It also connects to government policies promoting domestic industry and job creation.
- Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved proposals worth Rs 1.10 lakh crore.
- Approximately 98% of the procurement will be from indigenous sources.
- The proposals fall under the 'Buy (Indian-IDDM)' and 'Buy (Indian)' categories.
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chairs the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC).
- This initiative supports the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) vision.
- The procurement aims to modernize the Indian Armed Forces.
The DAC is the highest decision-making body in the Indian Ministry of Defence for capital acquisitions. It was formed in 2001 following the recommendations of the Group of Ministers on reforming the national security system. Chaired by the Defence Minister, its main function is to approve new policies and capital acquisitions for the three services (Army, Navy, Air Force) and the Indian Coast Guard.
Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, or Self-Reliant India Campaign, is an economic package and vision announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2020. It aims to make India a self-reliant nation across various sectors, including defence, manufacturing, and economy. The initiative focuses on boosting local industries, reducing imports, and promoting domestic production and innovation.
Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) is the first formal step in India's defence procurement process. It signifies the Ministry of Defence's approval for a specific defence acquisition project, acknowledging the operational requirement for new equipment or systems. Once AoN is granted, the procurement process can move forward to subsequent stages like Request for Proposal (RFP) and contract finalization.
UPSC often asks about defence reforms, 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in defence, and the roles of bodies like DAC (GS Paper III). SSC exams may focus on the total outlay or the percentage of indigenous content.
Remember 'DAC' for 'Defence Acquisition Council' and '1.10 Lakh Crore' as the 'Big Buy' for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in defence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the recent DAC approval for defence procurement?
The primary goal of the recent DAC approval is to enhance India's defence capabilities and promote self-reliance in defence manufacturing. By sourcing 98% of the procurement from Indian industries, it aims to boost the domestic defence sector and reduce dependence on foreign imports, aligning with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision.
Who chairs the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in India?
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in India is chaired by the Union Defence Minister. Currently, Rajnath Singh holds this position. The DAC is the highest decision-making body for defence procurement, ensuring strategic and efficient acquisition processes for the armed forces.
What is the significance of 'Buy (Indian-IDDM)' category in defence procurement?
The 'Buy (Indian-IDDM)' category signifies procurement from Indian vendors for products that are Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured. This category is given top priority in India's defence procurement policy, strongly promoting domestic research, development, and manufacturing capabilities, thereby fostering self-reliance and technological advancement within the country.