Defence Acquisition Council Approves $5.5 Billion Proposals
India's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved new capital acquisition proposals worth $5.5 billion, boosting the 'Make in India' initiative.
Source: GNews DRDO WeaponsThe Indian Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, recently approved capital acquisition proposals valued at approximately $5.5 billion (Rs 45,000 crore). These proposals aim to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. A significant portion of these acquisitions, over 90%, will be sourced from Indian industries, aligning with the government's 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives in the defence sector. The approved proposals include various defence equipment and systems, focusing on modernizing the military and reducing reliance on foreign imports. This move by the Defence Acquisition Council is expected to provide a major impetus to domestic defence manufacturing and technology development.
This news is important for competitive exams, especially for UPSC GS Paper III (Internal Security and Defence) and SSC General Awareness. It highlights India's commitment to defence indigenization and self-reliance. Aspirants should understand the role of the Defence Acquisition Council, the 'Make in India' initiative in defence, and the financial aspects of defence procurement.
- Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved proposals worth approximately $5.5 billion.
- The total value of approved proposals is Rs 45,000 crore.
- Over 90% of the acquisitions will be sourced from Indian industries.
- The DAC is chaired by the Union Defence Minister, currently Rajnath Singh.
- The approvals support the 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives.
- The proposals aim to enhance the operational capabilities of 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. Its objective is to ensure expeditious procurement of approved requirements of the Armed Forces in terms of capabilities and timeframes.
Launched in 2014, 'Make in India' is a government initiative to encourage companies to manufacture their products in India. It aims to boost manufacturing, create jobs, and increase foreign investment. In defence, it focuses on reducing import dependency and developing indigenous defence production capabilities.
Meaning 'Self-Reliant India Campaign', this economic package and vision was announced in 2020. It aims to make India self-reliant across various sectors, including defence. It emphasizes local manufacturing, local markets, and local supply chains to boost economic growth and resilience.
UPSC often asks about the structure and functions of defence bodies like the DAC, and government initiatives like 'Make in India' in the defence sector. SSC exams may focus on the current Defence Minister or the total value of such approvals.
DAC (Defence Acquisition Council) is like a 'DAD' for defence, approving all the 'CAP'ital (Capital Acquisition Proposals) for the armed forces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Defence Acquisition Council in India?
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is the highest decision-making body in India's Ministry of Defence for capital acquisitions. Its primary role is to approve defence procurement proposals, ensuring that the Indian Armed Forces receive necessary equipment efficiently and within specified timeframes.
How does the 'Make in India' initiative impact defence procurement?
The 'Make in India' initiative significantly impacts defence procurement by prioritizing indigenous manufacturing. It encourages domestic companies to produce defence equipment, reducing reliance on foreign imports, fostering technological development, and creating jobs within India's defence sector.
Who chairs the Defence Acquisition Council?
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is chaired by the Union Minister of Defence. The current Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh, presides over the meetings of the DAC.