India Reviews Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) of India has launched a comprehensive review of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020, as part of the government’s initiative to prepare for the 'Year of Reforms' in 2025. The review aims to modify and align the DAP with national reforms, enhancing the country's defence capabilities in alignment with emerging strategies and government policies.

Key Points:

• Initiation of Review: The MoD is undergoing a detailed review of the DAP 2020 to synchronize it with current Government of India policies, responding to the announcement of 2025 as the 'Year of Reforms'.

• Committee Formation: The review will be spearheaded by a Committee led by the Director General (Acquisition). This committee comprises senior MoD officials, representatives from the defence industry, and academia.

• Principal Advisor: Former IAS officer Shri Apurva Chandra, a 1980 batch officer and previous Director General of Acquisition, has been appointed as the Principal Advisor to the Committee.

• Consultation Process: The Committee has initiated stakeholder consultations and has requested suggestions by July 5, 2025, through the designated email (secy-dap2025[at]gov[dot]in).

• Objectives of DAP Review:

  1. Operational Requirements: To ensure the timely modernization of Armed Forces for national security.
  2. Alignment with GoI Policies: To reinforce the government's aim for Aatmanirbharta (Self-Reliance) in defence through indigenous systems.
  3. Promotion of 'Make in India': Facilitation of defence manufacturing via Joint Ventures and Technology Transfer, and encouraging foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) through Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) aligned strategies.
  4. Support for Indigenous Technology: Encouraging design and development in both public and private sectors, including support for start-ups and innovators.

• Stakeholder Suggestions: The Committee invites input on several specific areas:

  • Policy and procedural changes to streamline acquisition processes, including categorization, business facilitation, trial conduct, post-contract management, and fast-track procedures.
  • Adoption of advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).
  • Language recommendations to enhance clarity, eliminate ambiguity, and resolve inconsistencies in the DAP.
  • Additional relevant issues to be considered in the review for improving defence acquisition.

This initiative represents a strategic shift towards bolstering India's defence manufacturing capabilities while ensuring operational efficacy and compliance with modern national objectives. The emphasis on Aatmanirbharta and facilitation of indigenous technological development is expected to foster a robust defensive posture while integrating global best practices through cooperative frameworks with foreign entities.

Overall, this review signifies a critical step towards enhancing India's defence architecture and achieving self-sufficiency in its defence sector, aligning with the overarching national security goals.