MoD to tweak process for acquisition of weapons, equipment-OxBig News Network

In a bid to streamline the acquisition of weapons and equipment in line with rapid technological advancements, the Ministry of Defence has initiated a review of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020.

A committee has been set up to conduct extensive consultations with all stakeholders. Former IAS officer Apurva Chandra, who earlier served as Director General (Acquisition), will be the Principal Adviser to the committee.

The review aims to align acquisition timelines with the operational and modernisation needs of the armed forces. Key focus areas include fostering design and development in both the public and private sectors, with particular emphasis on startups, innovators and the domestic defence industry for indigenous technology infusion.

Other objectives include aligning acquisition processes with the goal of self-reliance by promoting indigenously designed and developed systems, and positioning India as a global hub for defence manufacturing and maintenance, repair and overhaul.

The reformed DAP will seek to strengthen the ‘Make in India’ initiative by encouraging joint ventures and technology transfer to the private sector, including through the FDI route for foreign original equipment manufacturers.

The committee has invited suggestions on policy and procedural reforms needed to streamline acquisition, enhance ease of doing business, expedite equipment trials, enable fast-track procedures and adopt emerging technologies such as AI. Suggestions can be emailed by July 5 to [email protected].

The committee comprises senior MoD officers and representatives from the defence industry and academia.