Urging DPSUs to intensify efforts to ensure timely supplies, the panel emphasised that India’s armed forces must be equipped with modern platforms to tackle unforeseen security situations effectively. It specifically called on the Ministry of Defence to develop domestic production capabilities incrementally, reducing reliance on foreign OEMs to “strategically acceptable levels.”
New Delhi: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence has recommended that India gradually bolster its domestic production capabilities to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. This advice comes in the wake of state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) encountering delays in delivering Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF), reportedly due to a US firm’s delay in supplying engines.
In its report submitted to Parliament, the panel voiced concern over the time overruns by some Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) caused by dependencies on foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and the need to coordinate with multiple stakeholders. The committee noted that such hurdles result in delays in delivering crucial equipment and weapon systems to the armed forces.
Urging DPSUs to intensify efforts to ensure timely supplies, the panel emphasised that India’s armed forces must be equipped with modern platforms to tackle unforeseen security situations effectively. It specifically called on the Ministry of Defence to develop domestic production capabilities incrementally, reducing reliance on foreign OEMs to “strategically acceptable levels.”
While acknowledging that the pursuit of self-reliance and strategic autonomy has at times contributed to delays, the committee insisted that this approach is necessary for India’s long-term defence interests. It recommended strengthening research and development efforts within DPSUs through enhanced funding, upgraded infrastructure, and improved human resource support to accelerate the development of advanced defence technology and achieve greater self-sufficiency.
