Defence📖 3 min read

Defence Ministry Clears Rs 1.1 Lakh Crore Military Procurements

India's Defence Ministry has approved major military procurements worth Rs 1.1 lakh crore, significantly boosting the capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Source: GNews Indian Military
Summary of News

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, recently approved military procurements valued at Rs 1.1 lakh crore. These procurements aim to enhance the operational readiness and combat capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. A significant portion of these acquisitions, over 90%, will be sourced from Indian industries, aligning with the 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives in defence. The approved proposals include various platforms and systems for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, focusing on modernizing equipment and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. This move is expected to provide a substantial boost to the domestic defence manufacturing sector and create job opportunities within the country. The Defence Ministry's decision underscores India's commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities through indigenous production.

Why It Matters

This news is crucial for competitive exams, especially for UPSC GS Paper III (Internal Security and Defence) and SSC General Awareness. It highlights India's defence indigenization efforts, 'Make in India' in defence, and the role of the Defence Acquisition Council. Aspirants should understand the financial outlay, the focus on domestic procurement, and its impact on India's strategic autonomy and defence preparedness.

Key Points for Exam
  • The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved military procurements worth Rs 1.1 lakh crore.
  • Over 90% of these procurements will be sourced from Indian industries.
  • The acquisitions are for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
  • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chairs the Defence Acquisition Council.
  • The move supports the 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives.
  • This is one of the largest defence procurement approvals in recent times.
Important Keywords Explained
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)organization

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.

Make in Indiascheme

Launched in 2014, 'Make in India' is a government initiative to encourage companies to manufacture their products in India. It aims to boost the manufacturing sector, create jobs, and reduce reliance on imports. In defence, it focuses on indigenization of equipment and technology.

Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyanscheme

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, by promoting local manufacturing, supply chains, and reducing dependence on foreign goods and services.

Additional Facts & Context
1The DAC is headed by the Union Defence Minister.
2India's defence budget for 2023-24 was approximately Rs 5.94 lakh crore.
3India is among the top global importers of defence equipment.
4The 'Strategic Partnership' model is used for complex defence projects with Indian private sector involvement.
Examiner's Tip

UPSC often asks about defence indigenization, 'Make in India' in defence, and the roles of bodies like the DAC. SSC exams may focus on the total amount, the percentage of indigenous procurement, or the name of the Defence Minister.

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Memory Trick

Remember 'DAC' for 'Defence Acquisition Council' and '1.1 Lakh Crore' as a 'Big Boost' for 'Bharat's' defence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of the recent Rs 1.1 lakh crore military procurement approval?

The primary goal of the Rs 1.1 lakh crore military procurement approval is to enhance the operational readiness and combat capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. It also aims to boost indigenous defence manufacturing and reduce India's reliance on foreign defence imports, aligning with 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives.

Who chairs the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in India?

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in India is chaired by the Union Defence Minister. The DAC is the highest decision-making body in the Ministry of Defence for capital acquisitions, ensuring efficient and timely procurement for the Armed Forces.

What percentage of the new defence procurements will be sourced from Indian industries?

Over 90% of the recently approved Rs 1.1 lakh crore defence procurements will be sourced from Indian industries. This significant emphasis on domestic sourcing is a key aspect of India's strategy to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing and strengthen its indigenous industrial base.

Connected Concepts / Topics
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