India’s Defence Ministry to Halve Procurement Timelines
India’s Defence Ministry has approved a major reform to significantly reduce procurement timelines, aiming to expedite the induction of critical military equipment and strengthen the armed forces’ operational readiness.
Streamlining Defence Procurement
The ministry is set to implement these changes in the upcoming Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP), which is currently under revision. The existing DAP, last updated in 2020, spans over 600 pages and is due for simplification. The updated procedure will accelerate key stages of procurement, including Acceptance of Necessity (AON), Request for Information (RFI), Request for Proposals (RFP), field trials, and contract negotiations. By allowing multiple processes to advance simultaneously instead of sequentially, the ministry aims to cut delays and improve efficiency.
Leadership’s Focus on Faster Acquisitions
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has emphasized the urgency of reducing delays in military acquisitions to ensure timely deployment of advanced defence systems. A special committee, led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, has been tasked with identifying bottlenecks and eliminating redundant procedures. The committee also aims to create a level playing field for new entrants in the defence sector, ensuring faster decision-making and reducing procedural red tape.
Addressing Historical Delays
Many defence projects in India have faced prolonged delays, impacting the armed forces’ capabilities. Systems such as the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), finalized in 2016, underwent extended trial phases and took years to receive final approval. Similarly, the procurement of essential items like snipers, carbines, bullet-proof jackets, and radars has been significantly delayed due to bureaucratic hurdles. The latest reforms aim to prevent such setbacks and ensure a smoother acquisition process.
Ensuring Efficiency and Accountability
To maintain adherence to the revised timelines, the Defence Ministry is introducing accountability measures, assigning specific responsibilities to officials overseeing procurement. By addressing delays in finalizing contracts, conducting trials, and cost negotiations, the ministry expects to double or even triple the number of annual defence acquisitions.
Conclusion
The decision to halve procurement timelines marks a significant step in India’s defence modernization efforts. By expediting the acquisition of critical military assets, the government is reinforcing its commitment to enhancing national security and ensuring that the armed forces remain well-equipped to meet emerging challenges.
