Defence Ministry Clears Rs 1.10 Lakh Crore Acquisition Proposals
The Defence Acquisition Council has approved major procurement proposals for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, boosting India's defence capabilities.
Source: GNews Indian MilitaryThe Defence Ministry recently approved acquisition proposals worth Rs 1.10 lakh crore for the Indian Armed Forces. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared these proposals. These acquisitions will benefit the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force. The focus is on procuring advanced equipment and systems, largely from domestic sources, under the 'Make in India' initiative. This move aims to enhance the operational readiness and modernise the country's defence forces. The proposals include various platforms and weapons, ensuring that the armed forces receive necessary upgrades to meet current and future security challenges. This significant investment underscores the government's commitment to strengthening national security and promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
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 and the implications of such large-scale procurements on national security and indigenous defence production. It also reflects government policy on defence spending and strategic autonomy.
- Defence Ministry cleared acquisition proposals worth Rs 1.10 lakh crore.
- The proposals were approved by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC).
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chairs the Defence Acquisition Council.
- The acquisitions are for the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force.
- A significant portion of the procurement will be from domestic sources.
- The initiative supports the 'Make in India' program in defence.
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. The Defence Minister chairs it. Its main 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 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 achieving self-reliance by promoting indigenous design, development, and manufacturing of defence equipment and platforms.
Capital acquisition in defence refers to the procurement of new equipment, platforms, and systems that have a long lifespan and significant cost. This includes items like fighter jets, warships, tanks, missiles, and advanced surveillance systems. It is distinct from revenue expenditure, which covers salaries, maintenance, and day-to-day operational costs.
UPSC often asks about defence reforms, 'Make in India' in defence, and the roles of bodies like the DAC (GS Paper III). SSC exams may focus on the Defence Minister's name or the total amount sanctioned.
Remember 'DAC' for 'Defence Acquisition Council' it's the 'Decision-making Arm for Capital' in defence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in India?
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) is the highest decision-making body in India's Ministry of Defence for capital acquisitions. Chaired by the Defence Minister, its primary role is to approve new policies and capital acquisitions for the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, ensuring efficient and transparent procurement processes.
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 Indian companies to design, develop, and produce defence equipment domestically, reducing reliance on foreign imports. This boosts local industry, creates jobs, and enhances India's self-reliance and strategic autonomy in defence.
What is the significance of Rs 1.10 lakh crore defence acquisition proposals?
The Rs 1.10 lakh crore defence acquisition proposals signify a major push towards modernizing India's armed forces and strengthening national security. This substantial investment will procure advanced equipment for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, enhancing their operational capabilities and readiness to face contemporary security challenges, largely through domestic production.