Concerned Over Cost Overruns In Defence Manufacturing, PM Modi Holds New Acquisitions

New Delhi, Jan 24 (KNN) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the armed forces, military-civilian bureaucracy, and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to collaborate, eliminate cost overruns, and address project delays.

The directive emphasises achieving success in "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) concerning defence manufacturing, reported HT.

In a high-level review meeting, attended by top officials, including Dr. PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to the PM, and Ajit Doval, National Security Adviser, Modi stressed the need for total accountability in Indian defence planning.

While the details of the meeting are classified, it is understood that Modi called for a focus on the long-term future of defence manufacturing and urged an audit of existing platforms before considering new acquisitions.

Rather than approving new acquisitions, the PM sought answers on how the armed forces manage platform obsolescence and demanded accountability for accidents leading to the destruction or un-usability of platforms worth substantial amounts.

Modi's concern aligns with his government's efforts to redirect saved funds into welfare programs like the PM Awas Yojana, dedicated to constructing houses for the underprivileged.

This directive from Modi follows his recent review meeting and coincides with Prof K Vijay Raghavan's critical review report, "Redefining Defence Research and Development," submitted to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on December 30. The report underscores critical observations about DRDO, emphasising urgent attention and reform.

The high-level committee indicated that DRDO undertakes defence projects beyond feasible timelines, resulting in significant cost overruns and technological obsolescence. It criticised the top-heavy structure of DRDO, its focus on India's western front (Pakistan), and a lack of agility in responding to current threats, particularly from China.

The report also highlights DRDO's reactive stance to technological advancements in third countries, emphasising a need for a breakthrough rather than a catch-up approach.

(KNN Bureau)