India Reviews Arms Procurement for Faster Modernization

India has initiated a comprehensive review of its Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020, aiming to expedite weapon system procurement and promote self-reliance. This move is intended to streamline processes, encourage private sector participation, and align with the nation's "Atmanirbharta" (self-reliance) goals.

The review addresses long-standing concerns about delays in defense projects and seeks to modernize the armed forces more efficiently. This initiative signals a critical step towards strengthening national security and fostering indigenous defense capabilities..

Highlights

• India's Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 is undergoing a comprehensive review to accelerate weapon procurement.
• The review aims to promote self-reliance ("Atmanirbharta") and increase private sector involvement in defense.
• The initiative seeks to streamline processes and align them with government policies for indigenous technology infusion.

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Top 5 Key Insights

• Expediting Weapon Procurement: The primary goal of the DAP 2020 review is to significantly reduce the timelines involved in acquiring weapon systems and platforms. This will ensure that the armed forces are equipped with the necessary tools in a timely manner, enhancing their operational readiness.

• Promoting Self-Reliance: The review emphasizes boosting indigenous design, development, and production of defense equipment. By fostering a domestic defense industry, India aims to reduce its dependence on foreign suppliers and enhance its strategic autonomy.

• Increasing Private Sector Participation: The initiative encourages greater involvement of the private sector in defense manufacturing through joint ventures and technology transfers. This aims to leverage the innovation and efficiency of private companies to strengthen the defense ecosystem.

• Streamlining Acquisition Processes: The review seeks to simplify and optimize the complex procedures involved in defense acquisitions. This includes identifying and removing bottlenecks, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and promoting transparency in the procurement process.

• Aligning with Government Policies: The DAP 2020 review is aligned with the government's broader policies of "Make in India" and promoting indigenous technology infusion. This ensures that defense procurement contributes to the overall economic and technological development of the country.

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Expert Insights

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh: "DAP 2020 defines the structure for military procurement, its current framework is due for a reset to align with modern security needs. Efforts to shorten the procurement cycle have already begun, with procedural timelines being cut by up to 69 weeks."

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Wrap Up

This comprehensive review of India's defense acquisition procedures marks a significant step towards modernizing its armed forces and promoting self-reliance. By streamlining processes, encouraging private sector involvement, and aligning with national policies, India aims to build a robust and technologically advanced defense industry.

This initiative not only enhances national security but also contributes to the country's economic growth and strategic independence.

Author

Dr. Lena Petrova - A political scientist and geopolitical analyst based in Berlin, specializing in international relations and governance. Her contributions to Enlightnr offer deep insights into how political dynamics shape the world.