Set military reforms in motion

Context: COVID provides an opportunity for reforms in defence procurement procedure through special reference to Dr. Pritam Singh Committee 2016.

The underlying problem in Defence Procurement :

• Poorly Drafted General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQR): Byzantine processes in Defence Procurement Procedure and ‘utopian’ demands under it creates delays resulting in entire process to be terminated.

• Miasma between Military and Ministry: The overarching responsibility for all military procurements has been mishandled by non-agreement between military and the Centre.

• Exclusive treatment to Military: Some stages of GSQR formulation comes under exclusive jurisdiction of Service Headquarters. 

Committees Suggestions:

• Establishment of Defence Capability Acquisition Authority (DCAA): A semi-independent body that would manage all aspects of defence acquisition for all three services managed by a cadre of technical and military professionals.

• Seven verticals: Dividing DCAA into units dealing with land, air, maritime, science and technology, industrial collaboration, and commercial and legal issues.

Way Forward: Current economic predicament can be an opportunity for ushering in realistic military reforms