New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has launched a comprehensive review of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020. The initiative aims to align the policy framework with national priorities such as Aatmanirbharta, Make in India, and cutting-edge technology infusion.
A high-level committee headed by the Director General (Acquisition) has been formed to steer this reform process. It includes senior officials from the MoD, representatives from the defence industry, and members of academia. Former IAS officer and ex-DG (Acquisition) Apurva Chandra has been appointed as Principal Advisor to the panel.
The committee has already initiated stakeholder consultations and has invited public and industry feedback by July 5, 2025.
Key Objectives of the Review
The review is designed to:
Modernise the Armed Forces by ensuring timely procurement to meet operational requirements.
Realign the DAP with national policies to boost self-reliance through indigenous design, development, and manufacturing.
Encourage Make in India by facilitating joint ventures, Transfer of Technology (ToT), and easing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) norms to position India as a global defence manufacturing and MRO hub.
Promote innovation by strengthening participation from startups, private defence players, and academia in the R&D ecosystem.
Inputs Sought from Stakeholders
The MoD has called for suggestions on:
Policy or procedural reforms to streamline the acquisition lifecycle — from categorisation to trials, post-contract management, and fast-track procurement.
Integration of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Enhancing clarity in the language of DAP by eliminating ambiguities and inconsistencies.
Any additional issues or gaps in the current policy that need redressal.
This move marks a significant step in India’s defence policy transformation, aiming to build a more robust, agile, and innovation-friendly acquisition ecosystem.
