Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday underscored the role of Defence Accounts Department (DAD) in enhancing the operational readiness and financial agility of the Armed Forces at the Controllers’ Conference 2025 in New Delhi.
Citing the success of Operation Sindoor, he said India’s growing defence capabilities, particularly indigenous equipment, have boosted global demand and respect for the country’s defence sector.
He urged the DAD to evolve from being mere financial controllers to facilitators, especially as private sector participation in defence expands. Stressing the importance of timely financial decisions, Singh warned that even minor delays or errors could impact operational preparedness.
The Minister credited the defence sector’s ongoing transformation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, underlining significant progress towards self-reliance and domestic manufacturing. He said “Most of the equipment we once imported is now being made in India. Our reforms are succeeding because of the clarity of vision and commitment at the highest level.” He noted that rising global military expenditure – now at $2.7 trillion – presents major export opportunities for Indian defence industries.
Singh emphasized the economic impact of defence investments, describing them as key drivers of growth. He called for the incorporation of Defence Economics into departmental planning, including assessments of R&D and dual-use technologies.
“Our effort is to ensure that decisions are taken swiftly so that we can begin manufacturing larger engines right here in India and that this journey begins with the hands of Indians,” he added.
Highlighting the Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme, Singh encouraged DAD to actively support funding for start-ups, MSMEs, and private firms. He also praised recent reforms, including the Defence Acquisition Council’s approval of weapon purchases through the capital route.
“Until recently, defence budgets were not seen as part of the national economy. Today, they are growth drivers,” he said.
Commending DAD’s new motto – “Alert, Agile, Adaptive” – Singh urged officials to pursue internal reforms through self-assessment. He stressed the need for financial systems that can adapt quickly during periods of uncertainty, ensuring that both equipment production and budget allocations remain responsive.
“Peace time is nothing but an illusion. Even during periods of relative calm, we must prepare for uncertainty. Sudden developments can force a complete shift in our financial and operational posture. Whether it’s stepping up equipment production or adapting financial processes, we must be ready with innovative techniques and responsive systems at all times,” he said.
The Minister lauded digital platforms like GeM and SPARSH for promoting transparency and efficiency. Notably, over Rs 2 lakh crore worth of procurements have been made via GeM, while SPARSH has brought pension services to over 32 lakh defence pensioners.
Singh also welcomed upcoming initiatives like the Comprehensive Pay System and Centralised Database Management System, and praised the department’s Vision Document and revised Defence Accounts Code released during the event.
Congratulating the department for full capital budget utilisation in the previous fiscal year, he urged continued fiscal discipline with a focus on efficiency-led growth. “Let us all pledge to remain alert, agile, and adaptive so that our work remains relevant and impactful. Our responsibility is immense, and every decision we make contributes to the larger vision of national security and self-reliance,” he concluded.
The conference was attended by top defence officials including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, service chiefs, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman and Defence Secretary R&D Dr. Samir V Kamat, Financial Adviser (Defence Services) S G Dastidar and Controller General of Defence Accounts Dr. Mayank Sharma.
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