Question : PROCUREMENT OF DEFENCE EQUIPMENT

(a) whether there has been huge delays in the procurement of defence equipment;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(c) the measures taken by the Government to fast track and expedite the procurement of essential defence equipment and eradicate the scourage of corruption from defence deals;

(d) whether the Government has decided to procure defence equipment above 10 lakh rupees only through e-platform to curb the possibility of corruption in defence deals; and

(e) if so, the details thereof and the other steps being taken to bring transparency in the procurement of defence equipment?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI ARUN JAITLEY)

(a) to (e): Procurement of Defence Equipment is carried out as per the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) and Defence Procurement Manual (DPM). They contain stringent provisions aimed at ensuring the highest degree of probity, public accountability and transparency.

The Defence Procurement Procedure has provision for Fast Track Procurement (FTP) for meeting urgent operational requirements foreseen as imminent or for situations where crisis emerges without prior warning.

No decision has been taken for procurement of defence equipment under Capital Acquisition above Rs.10 lakh only through e-platform.