Defence Acquisition Council Approves 52,000 Crore Military Purchases
India's Defence Acquisition Council has cleared military purchases worth 52,000 crore, boosting the country's defence capabilities.
Source: GNews Indian MilitaryThe Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, recently approved military procurement proposals valued at approximately 52,000 crore. These approvals are a significant step towards modernising the Indian Armed Forces and enhancing national security. The proposals include various defence equipment and systems, with a strong emphasis on indigenous manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative. This move aims to reduce India's reliance on foreign defence imports and strengthen the domestic defence industrial base. The Defence Acquisition Council's decision will facilitate the acquisition of critical technologies and platforms, ensuring that the armed forces are equipped with advanced capabilities to meet future challenges. This substantial investment underscores the government's commitment to self-reliance in defence.
This news is important for competitive exams, especially for UPSC GS Paper III (Security) and SSC General Awareness. It highlights India's defence modernisation efforts and the 'Make in India' initiative in the defence sector. Aspirants should understand the role of the Defence Acquisition Council, the significance of indigenous defence production, and the financial outlay involved in such procurements. This topic connects to national security, economic policy, and government initiatives.
- The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved military purchases worth approximately 52,000 crore.
- The DAC meeting was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
- The approvals focus on indigenous manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative.
- This procurement aims to modernise the Indian Armed Forces.
- The move seeks to reduce India's dependence on foreign defence imports.
- The total value of approved purchases is 52,000 crore.
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 primary function is to approve new policies and capital acquisitions for the three services (Army, Navy, Air Force) and the Indian Coast Guard.
Launched in 2014, 'Make in India' is a government initiative designed to encourage companies to manufacture their products in India. It aims to boost the manufacturing sector, create jobs, and reduce import dependence across various sectors, including defence. The initiative promotes foreign direct investment and aims to establish India as a global manufacturing hub.
Indigenous manufacturing refers to the production of goods and services within a country, using local resources, technology, and labour. In the defence sector, it means designing, developing, and producing military equipment and platforms domestically. This reduces reliance on foreign suppliers, enhances self-reliance, and strengthens the national industrial base.
UPSC often asks about the structure and functions of defence bodies like the DAC, and the impact of government initiatives like 'Make in India' on the defence sector. SSC exams may focus on the total outlay or the minister involved.
Remember DAC (Defence Acquisition Council) as 'Decides All Capital' for defence purchases, chaired by the Defence Minister.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)?
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 new policies and capital acquisitions for the Indian Armed Forces and the Indian Coast Guard, ensuring a streamlined and efficient procurement process.
How does the 'Make in India' initiative impact defence procurement?
The 'Make in India' initiative significantly impacts defence procurement by prioritising indigenous manufacturing. It encourages domestic production of defence equipment, reducing reliance on foreign imports, fostering self-reliance, and boosting the Indian defence industrial base. This helps create jobs and strengthens the national economy.
Who chairs the Defence Acquisition Council meetings?
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meetings are chaired by the Union Defence Minister of India. This ensures that high-level strategic decisions regarding defence procurement and policy are made under the direct leadership of the ministry's head.