India`s Defense Acquisition System: Need for Further Reforms

India`s defense acquisition system has evolved over the years and now consists of hierarchical and institutional structures and detailed procedures. The evolved system has created an atmosphere for undertaking acquisition in a more methodical, process-oriented and objective manner. The success of the evolved system is evident from its ability to execute orders worth billions of dollars every year. However, despite all the success of the evolved system there are certain weak areas that demander forms to make the system more accountable and deliver within a prescribed timeframe by optimally utilizing the available resources. Among others, the arms acquisition needs to flow from a strong planning process that is presently constrained to bring in the required inter- and intra-service prioritization of weapons acquisition and ensure holistic development of national capability. The formulation of weapons systems` requirements. a critical stage of the acquisition cycle, which is presently carried out within the individual armed forces with inherent weaknesses. needs to be undertaken preferably by a dedicated and professional body. The accountability of acquisition also needs to be strengthened by bringing about a centralized, integrated and professional agency with the responsibility of ensuring timely acquisition.