MoD Initiates Review of 2020 Defence Acquisition Procedure to Enhance Self-Reliance and Modernisation
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) in India has launched a comprehensive review of its Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020, following the government's announcement of 2025 as the 'Year of Reforms.' This initiative aims to refine the defence procurement process and align it with national objectives, such as Aatmanirbharta, the 'Make in India' campaign, and the enhancement of defence manufacturing capacities.
A high-level committee, led by the Director General (Acquisition), has been established to spearhead this review. This panel comprises senior officials from the MoD, representatives from the defence industry, and members of the academic community. Former IAS officer Shri Apurva Chandra, who served as DG (Acquisition) and belongs to the 1980 batch, has been appointed as the Principal Advisor to the committee.
The committee has already commenced consultations and is seeking detailed suggestions from stakeholders by July 5, 2025. Suggestions are to be sent to the email address secy-dap2025[at]gov[dot]in.
The primary goals of the review include ensuring that the operational and modernization needs of the armed forces are met promptly. Additionally, there is a focus on integrating emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and advanced surveillance systems, into procurement practices.
The review also aims to simplify acquisition procedures, improve the ease of doing business, and promote systems designed within the country. The MoD intends to facilitate joint ventures, attract foreign direct investment (FDI), and boost private sector participation, thereby establishing India as a global hub for defence manufacturing and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO).
Stakeholders are encouraged to provide suggestions on various key areas, including procedural changes in categorization, trial procedures, post-contract management, fast track acquisition methods, and clarifications in the DAP's language to remove ambiguities.
This initiative signifies a strategic shift towards creating a defence ecosystem that is agile, transparent, and driven by innovation. It aims to empower startups, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and private companies within India's defence sector.
