MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ( Aatmanirbharta in Defence) - YEAR END REVIEW 2023

 Aatmanirbharta in Defence

• Positive Indigenisation Lists: Fifth Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) of Department of Military Affairs (DMA) comprising 98 items was released by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh during the plenary session of ‘Swavlamban 2.0’. The list includes Highly complex systems, sensors, weapons and ammunition have been included in the list. All these items will be procured from indigenous sources as per provisions given in Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 in staggered timeline. The DMA had earlier promulgated four PILs comprising 411 military items. Separately, the Department of Defence Production (DDP) has notified four PILs consisting of a total of 4,666 items, including Line Replacement Units/Sub-systems/Spares & Components for DPSUs. The fourth PIL of 928 items was released by DDP this year.

 

• Record Defence Production: The value of defence production in Financial Year (FY) 2022-23 crossed the figure of Rs one lakh crore for the first time ever. It was Rs 95,000 crore in FY 2021-22. The Government is continuously working with defence industries and their associations to remove the challenges faced by them and promote defence production in the country. A number of policy reforms have been taken to achieve the objective of ease of doing business, including the integration of MSMEs and start-ups into the supply chain. Due to these policies, the industries, including MSMEs and start-ups, are forthcoming in defence design, development & manufacturing and there is almost a 200% increase in the number of defence licenses issued to the industries in the last 7-8 years by the Government.

 

• Record Defence Exports: Through consistent policy initiatives of the Government and tremendous contribution of the defence industry, defence exports reached an all-time high of approx. Rs 16,000 crore in FY 2022-23, almost Rs 3,000 crore more than the previous financial year. It a rise of over 10 times since 2016-17. India is now exporting to over 85 countries. Indian industry has shown its capability of design and development to the world, with 100 firms exporting defence products at present. Major platforms being exported include Dornier-228, 155 mm Advanced Towed Artillery Guns, Brahmos Missiles, Akash Missile System, Radars, Simulators, Mine Protected Vehicles, Armoured Vehicles, PINAKA Rockets & Launchers, Ammunitions, Thermal Imagers, Body Armours, besides Systems, Line Replaceable Units and Parts & components of Avionics and Small Arms. There is growing global demand of LCA-Tejas, Light Combat Helicopters, Aircraft Carrier, MRO activities etc.

 

• Separate Budget for Domestic Industry: Record 75 per cent (approx. Rs one lakh crore) of the defence capital procurement budget was earmarked for domestic industry in FY 2023-24, up from 68 per cent in 2022-23. This was announced by the Raksha Mantri during 14th Aero India in Bengaluru. In FY 2023-24, Ministry of Defence was allocated a total Budget of Rs 5.94 lakh crore, which is 13.18 per cent of the total budget (Rs 45.03 lakh crore). Capital outlay pertaining to modernisation and infrastructure development was increased to Rs 1.63 lakh crore.

 

• HAL Helicopter Factory: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Helicopter Factory was dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at Tumakuru in Karnataka. The factory is India’s largest helicopter manufacturing facility and will initially produce Light Utility Helicopters (LUHs). The LUH is an indigenously designed and developed three-ton class, single engine multipurpose utility helicopter with unique features of high manoeuvrability. Initially, the factory will produce around 30 helicopters per year and can be enhanced to 60 and then 90 per year in a phased manner.

 

• PM’s Tejas Sortie: In November, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi flew a sortie in ‘Tejas’ Twin-Seater Light Combat Fighter aircraft designed, developed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru. The sortie was carried out from the Aircraft Systems Testing Establishment, Bengaluru. During the 30-minute sortie, capabilities of Tejas were demonstrated to the Prime Minister. It was the first time an Indian Prime Minister flew a fighter aircraft sortie. The Prime Minister also visited the production facilities of LCA Tejas and was briefed about the technology intensive work being done at HAL towards realising the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

 

• LCA Tejas: HAL handed over the first twin-seater Light Combat Aircraft ‘Tejas’ to the IAF in the presence of Rakha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt in Bengaluru. It is a light weight, all weather multi-role 4.5 generation aircraft, designed to support the training requirements of the IAF and augment itself to the role of a fighter in case of necessity. It is an amalgamation of contemporary concepts and technologies such as relaxed static-stability, quadraplex fly-by-wire flight control, carefree manoeuvring, advanced glass cockpit, integrated digital avionics systems and advanced composite materials for the airframe. The IAF placed an order for 83 LCAs with HAL.

 

• C-295 Transport Aircraft: First C-295 MW transport aircraft was formally inducted into the Indian Air Force in the presence of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh. The aircraft are being inducted through a collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Airbus Defence and Space S.A., Spain. Fifteen more aircraft will be delivered in flyaway condition and they are scheduled to be received till August 2025. Remaining forty will be manufactured at the C-295 transport aircraft manufacturing facility, the foundation stone of which was laid by the Prime Minister in Vadodara, Gujarat in October 2022. The first Made in India aircraft is expected from September 2026. This medium lift tactical aircraft, which is capable of taking off and landing from unprepared landing grounds, will replace the HS-748 Avro aircraft.

 

Defence Acquisition

 

• Defence Acquisition Council: In 2023, Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, approved in its meetings proposals worth a total of over Rs 3.50 lakh crore to enhance the operational preparedness of the Armed Forces.

 

(i)         In a meeting held in November, the DAC accorded approval in respect of Acceptance of Necessity (AoNs) for various Capital Acquisition Proposals amounting to Rs 2.23 lakh crore, of which, acquisition worth Rs 2.20 lakh crore (98% of total AoN amount) will be sourced from domestic industries. Procurement of Light Combat Helicopters & Light Combat Aircraft Mk 1A from HAL got a nod. The AoNs were also accorded by the DAC for upgradation of Su-30 MKI aircraft indigenously from HAL. Medium-Range Anti-Ship Missiles for surface platform of the Indian Navy was also accorded approval. Acquisition of Towed Gun System was cleared to replace Indian Field Gun.

 

(ii)        In July, the DAC granted AoN for procurement of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft along with associated ancillary equipment, weapons, simulator, spares, documentation, crew training and logistic support for the Indian Navy from the French Government based on Inter-Governmental Agreement.

 

(iii)       In June, the DAC, approved acquisition of 31 MQ-9B (16 Sky Guardian and 15 Sea Guardian) High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) for Tri-Services from the USA through Foreign Military Sale (FMS) route. The AoN included the number of UAVs to be procured along with associated equipment.

 

(iv)       In March, the DAC accorded AoN for capital acquisition amounting to over Rs 70,500 crore under Buy {Indian-IDDM (Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured)}. BrahMos missiles, Shakti EW systems & Utility Helicopters-Maritime, valued at Rs 56,000 crore, were cleared for Indian Navy. Long Range Stand-Off Weapon for the Indian Air Force got the nod which will be integrated on SU-30 MKI aircraft. Procurement of 155mm/52 Caliber ATAGS, along with High Mobility & Gun Towing Vehicles, for the Indian Army were also approved. Acquisition of Advance Light Helicopters MK-III for Indian Coast Guard from HAL were also cleared.

 

(v)        In September, the DAC approved AoN for nine capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 45,000 crore. Procurement of Light Armoured Multipurpose Vehicles, Integrated Surveillance & Targeting System and Next Generation Survey Vessels got the nod. Proposals for avionic upgradation of Dornier Aircraft; procurement of Dhruvastra Short Range Air-to-Surface Missile and 12 Su-30 MKI Aircraft were also cleared.

 

(vi)       In January, two proposals for Indian Army and one for Indian Navy, amounting to Rs 4,276 crore, were cleared under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. The AoN was accorded for procurement of HELINA Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, launchers and associated support equipment which will be integrated to the Advanced Light Helicopter. Procurement of VSHORAD (IR Homing) missile system under design and development by DRDO was also cleared. The DAC also granted approval for procurement of Brahmos Launcher and Fire Control System for the Shivalik class of ships & Next Generation Missile Vessels for Indian Navy.

 

(vii)      In August, DAC accorded AoN for capital acquisition proposals worth approximately Rs 7,800 crore. To enhance the efficiency of the IAF, DAC approved AoN for procurement and installation of Electronic Warfare Suite on Mi-17 V5 Helicopters under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. The DAC has also accorded AoN for procurement of Ground-Based Autonomous System for mechanised infantry and armoured regiments. Proposals for procurement of 7.62x51 mm Light Machine Gun  and Bridge Laying Tank were also given go ahead.

 

• Contracts with BEL: Ministry of Defence signed a number of contracts with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), valued at a total cost of Rs 17,176 crore, to enhance the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces. The first contract, worth over Rs 2,800 crore, pertains to the supply of Medium Power Radars ‘Arudhra’ to the Indian Air Force. The second contract, at an overall cost of approx. Rs 950 crore, relates to 129 DR-118 Radar Warning Receivers. The third contract pertains to the procurement of two Integrated Electronic Warfare Systems ‘Project Himshakti’ at an overall cost of approximately Rs 3,000 crore. Another two contracts, worth Rs 2,400 crore, relate to procurement of Automated Air Defence Control & Reporting System ‘Project Akashteer’ for Indian Army and Sarang Electronic Support Measure systems for Indian Navy. Contract for 13 Lynx-U2 Fire Control Systems for Indian Navy at a total cost of over Rs 1,700 crore under Buy {Indian – IDMM} category was also inked with BEL. A contract for Weapon Locating Radars Swathi (Plains) for Indian Army was also signed with BEL at a cost of over Rs 990 crore. Another contract was signed with BEL for procurement of Electronic Fuzes for the Indian Army for a period of 10 years, at a total cost of Rs 5,336 crore. These essentially embody the spirit of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and will help facilitate the realisation of the country’s journey to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

 

• HTT-40 Basic Trainer Aircraft: The Ministry of Defence signed a contract with HAL for procurement of 70 HTT-40 Basic Trainer Aircraft for the Indian Air Force at a cost of Rs 6,828.36 crore. The aircraft will be supplied over a period of six years. The HTT-40 is a turbo prop aircraft and is designed to have good low speed handling qualities and provide better training effectiveness. It contains approx. 56% indigenous content which will progressively increase to over 60% through indigenisation of major components and subsystems. The HAL engages the domestic private industry, including MSMEs, in its supply chain. It has the potential to provide direct and indirect employment to thousands of people spread over more than 100 MSMEs.

 

• Cadet Training Ships: Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) for procurement of three Cadet Training Ships, worth over Rs 3,100 crore under Buy {Indian-IDDM (Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured)} category in New Delhi. The ships will cater to the training of officer cadets, including women, at sea after their basic training to meet the future requirements of the Indian Navy. The ships can also be deployed for evacuation of people from distress areas, Search & Rescue and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. The delivery of ships is scheduled to commence from 2026. The project has the potential to generate an employment of 22.5 lakh man-days over a period of four-and-half years. This will encourage active participation of Indian shipbuilding and associated industries, including MSMEs.

 

• Dornier-228 Aircraft: Ministry of Defence signed a contract for procurement of six Dornier-228 aircraft for the Indian Air Force from HAL at a cost of Rs 667 crore. The aircraft was used by IAF for Route Transport Role and communication duties. Subsequently, it has also been used for training of transport pilots of the IAF. The present lot of six aircraft will be procured with an upgraded fuel-efficient engine coupled with a five bladed composite propeller.

 

• Improved Akash Weapon System: Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited, worth over Rs 8,160 crore, for procurement of improved Akash Weapon System (AWS) for Indian Army. The contract was for procurement of AWS for 3rd & 4th Regiments of Army Air Defence, comprising live Missiles & Launchers with upgrades, Ground Support Equipment, Vehicles and Infrastructure. The AWS is a Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile Air Defence System, indigenously designed and developed by DRDO. The project has overall indigenous content of 82% which will be increased to 93% by 2026-27.

 

• Offshore Patrol Vessels & Missile Vessels: In a huge boost to achieve  ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence, Ministry of Defence signed contracts with Indian shipyards for acquisition of 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels and six Next Generation Missile Vessels at an overall cost of approx. Rs 19,600 crore. The contract for acquisition of 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category was signed with Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata. Of the 11 ships, seven will be indigenously designed, developed & manufactured by GSL and four by GRSE. The delivery of the ships is scheduled to commence from September 2026. The contract for acquisition of six Next Generation Missile Vessels was signed with Cochin Shipyard Limited at a cost of Rs 9,805 crore. The delivery of ships is scheduled to commence from March 2027. The NGMVs would be heavily armed war vessels incorporating stealth, high speed and offensive capability.

 

• Fleet Support Ships: Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Visakhapatnam for acquisition of five Fleet Support Ships (FSS) for the Indian Navy at an overall cost of approx Rs 19,000 crore. The FSS will be employed for replenishing ships at sea with fuel, water, ammunition and stores, enabling the Indian Naval Fleet to operate for prolonged periods without returning to harbour. They can also be deployed for evacuation of people and HADR operations. The ships of 44,000 Tons will be the first-of-its kind to be built in India by an Indian Shipyard. This project will generate employment of nearly 168.8 lakh mandays over a period of eight years.

 

• Upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount: Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, Haridwar for procurement of 16 Upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) along with associated equipment for Indian Navy under Buy (Indian) category at a total cost of Rs 2,956.89 crore. The upgraded SRGM is a medium caliber anti-missile/anti-aircraft point defence weapon system which provides a sustained rate of fire and high accuracy. The SRGMs will be installed onboard Indian Navy's in-service and newly-built ships by Mazagaon Dock and Shipbuilders Ltd., Mumbai, and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, Kolkata.

 

• INS Shankush Medium Refit with Life Certification: Ministry of Defence signed a contract for Medium Refit with Life Certification of Sub-Surface Killer Class of Submarine ‘INS Shankush’ with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai at an overall cost of Rs 2,725 crore. The delivery of the submarine post MRLC will be in 2026. After completion of MRLC, INS Shankush will be combat ready and will join the active fleet of the Indian Navy with upgraded combat capability.

 

• Radio Relay Communication equipment containers: Giving a further boost to indigenous manufacturing of defence equipment, Ministry of Defence inked a contract with ICOMM Tele Limited, Hyderabad for the procurement of 1,035 numbers of 5/7.5 Ton Radio Relay Communication equipment containers. The value of the contract under Buy (Indian) Category is nearly Rs 500 crore. The delivery of the containers is scheduled to commence from the current Financial Year 2023-24.

 

• Upgraded Dornier Aircraft for ICG: Ministry of Defence signed a contract with HAL for procurement of two Dornier Aircraft for Indian Coast Guard along with associated Engineering Support package at an overall cost of Rs 458.87 crore. The aircraft will be procured under the Buy (Indian) Category. The aircraft will be fitted with a number of advanced equipment viz., Glass Cockpit, Maritime Patrol Radar, Electro Optic Infra-Red device, Mission Management System etc.

 

• 300th iDEX contract: Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the flagship initiative of Ministry of Defence, reached a milestone with the signing of 300th contract. The contract, which was inked with Agnit Semiconductors Private Limited, relates to the design and development of advanced Gallium Nitride Semiconductors which is essential for the next generation of wireless transmitters in defence applications ranging from radars to Electronics Warfare jammers. This would significantly enhance the indigenous design and development capability, paving way for immense potential in the defence sector including exports.

 

Border Infrastructure

 

• Infrastructure Projects: 118 infrastructure projects of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) were dedication to the Nation by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh this year. In September, he launched 90 infrastructure projects, worth over Rs 2,900 crore, spread across 11 States/Union Territories. The projects were inaugurated at an event in Jammu. These include Nechiphu Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh; two airfields; two helipads; 22 roads and 63 bridges. Of these 90 projects, 36 are in Arunachal Pradesh; 26 in Ladakh; 11 in Jammu & Kashmir; five in Mizoram; three in Himachal Pradesh; two each in Sikkim, Uttarakhand & West Bengal and one each in Nagaland, Rajasthan and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The BRO has completed the construction of these strategically-important projects in record time; most of them in a single working season using state-of-the-art technology. In January, 28 infrastructure projects, worth Rs 724 crore, were launched during an event organised at Siyom Bridge on Along-Yinkiong Road in Arunachal Pradesh. The projects comprise 22 bridges, including Siyom bridge; three roads and three other projects in seven border States/Union Territories of Northern & North-Eastern regions. Eight of these projects are in Ladakh; five in Arunachal Pradesh; four in Jammu & Kashmir; three each in Sikkim, Punjab & Uttarakhand and two in Rajasthan. In addition, three telemedicine nodes - two in Ladakh & one in Mizoram – were inaugurated.
• Budget: The budget expenditure of BRO reached a record high of Rs 12,340 crore in FY 2022-23 with a 100% jump in the funds allocated under GS Capital Head over the preceding two years which now stands at Rs 5,000 crore.

• Roads: In the current year, 601 kms of roads have been completed. Considerable progress has been made on India-China Border Roads and all other Op-Critical Roads along the Northern Borders. Works on critical roads like Nimu-Padam Darcha Road, Gunji-Kutti-Jolingkong Road, Balipara- Chardwar-Tawang Road, TCC-Taksing Road, TCC-Maza Road etc are being undertaken at increased pace. BRO's work on Hapoli-Sarli-Huri Road for blacktopping for the first time since Independence, was commended by the Prime Minister.

1. Raqni-Ustad-Pharkiyan Gali Road (J&K): Work on this 38.25 km road along the Shamshabari Ridge was completed. This road will provide lateral connectivity between Sadhna Pass and Pharkiyan Gali.
2. Srinagar-BaramuIIa-Uri Road (Pkg IV) (J&K). Upgradation of NH-01 from NHDL to NHDL(PS) specification between Baramulla and Uri (44.10 kms) was sanctioned by Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
3. Alternate Connectivity to DBO Road (Ladakh):

• Road Sasoma-Saser La (52.4 kms): In September, surfacing is in progress and will be completed in the next working season.
• Road Saser La - Saser Brangsa (16 kms): Connectivity has been established and surfacing & permanent works are in progress.
• Road Saser Brangsa-Morqo (18 kms): Work on this road is progressing well and connectivity was established in October 2022. Presently, 10.50 kms of black topping has been completed and balance surfacing is in progress.
• Road Saser Brangsa-Gapshan (41.97 kms): Connectivity was achieved in October and formation, permanent & surfacing works are in progress.

4. Chushul-Dungti-Fukche-Demchok Road (Ladakh): Work on this strategically important 114.5 km road has being undertaken under Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC) mode. 100.8 km formation has been completed and permanent works are in progress.
5. Gunii - Kutti - Jollingkong Road (Uttarakhand): Work on this 36.3 km road will be completed soon with surfacing works underway in full swing. This road will pave the way for millions of devotees to embark on a spiritual journey to Adi Kailash.
6. Road Ghatiabagarh-Lakhanpur-Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand): DPR for improvement of 81.30 km long road from Cl-9 (E) to NHDL with hard shoulder configuration under Bharatmala Pariyojna sanctioned and tendering action in progress.
7. Nyu Sobla - Tidang Road (Uttarakhand): The Nyu-Sobla-Tidang Road of approx 46.58 kms has been entrusted to BRO for further development & maintenance by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Most of the formation works have been completed.

• MHA works: Four roads of a total of 255 kms have been approved by MHA for construction in Arunachal Pradesh under Project Arunank.
• PM’s visit to Uttarakhand: The Prime Minister visited Jollingkong and interacted with BRO personnel on 14 Oct 2023. He lauded the unwavering services of BRO personnel in challenging conditions.
• Glacial Lake Outburst Flood in Sikkim: In October, the southern bank of South Lhonak Lake in Sikkim was breached and large volume of water was released causing flash floods. The floods caused large scale devastation to the road infrastructure in North Sikkim. Approx 16 kms of stretches of seven roads and 15 bridges, being maintained by BRO, were damaged. BRO pressed all its resources to restore connectivity. The restoration works are being undertaken in a time bound, result oriented manner.

 

Tunnels:

• Currently, BRO is working on 20 tunnels with 10 under construction and 10 under planning stage. The 500 m long Nechiphu Tunnel on B-C-T Road (Arunachal Pradesh) was dedicated to the Nation by the Raksha Mantri in September. Further, the construction of 4.1 Km long Shinku La Tunnel is likely to commence soon, which will be the Highest Tunnel in the World at an altitude of 15,855 ft once completed.

 

• Sela Tunnel: This Project on Balipara-Charduar-Tawang Road in Arunachal Pradesh encompasses two tunnels of twin tube configuration. The alignment reduces the travel distance by more than eight kms and cuts down the travelling time by an hour while obviating the Sela Pass climb, providing all weather connectivity to Tawang. This tunnel is nearing completion and will be the longest Bi-Lane Highway Tunnel in the world at an altitude of 13,800 feet once completed.

 

• Kandi Tunnel (J&K). Breakthrough of 260m long Kandi Tunnel on NH-144A on Akhnoor to Poonch Road was achieved in October, despite adverse weather conditions. The work had commenced in March. This tunnel will reduce the length of the road by 2.5 kms and will play a vital role in enhancing connectivity from Jammu to Poonch.

 

Bridges:

• In the current year, 3,179m of bridges have been completed. Also, there has been a renewed impetus to bridges, with 22 bridges revived and completed in the last two years. MoU with GRSE for supply & launching of 60 Modular Double Lane Cl 70 Bridges was signed to enable faster replacement of old Bailey Bridges of lower load classification. 20 such Bridges have been completed till date. Further the following permanent Bridges have been completed and ready for opening to traffic.

• Permanent Bridge over Shyok River (Ladakh): This 345.70m Bridge located at Saser Brangsa over River Shyok at an altitude of nearly 15,300 feet was planned & conceptualised in March. The construction was completed in October in a single working season, an unprecedented achievement at this altitude.
• BRO works in Bhutan: Two Double Lane Steel Modular Bridges - Tshaphel and Kana - on Chuzom-Haa in Bhutan were inaugurated by Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Mr Lyonpo Dorji Tshering in October. These bridges were constructed within just three months. In addition to this, a 24m-long RCC Double lane Permanent Bridge was also inaugurated by the Mayor of Trashigang on the road from Daranga to Trashigong.

 

Airfields: Barrackpore and Bagdogra airfields in West Bengal were dedicated to the Nation by the Raksha Mantri in September. The development works on the recently allotted Nyoma Airfield at Eastern Ladakh have commenced.

New Technologies: BRO has incorporated several new and innovative technologies & equipment to boost the pace of construction in border areas such as cementitious bases for surfacing works of roads, use of geo cells, use of M 50 inter locking concrete blocks, slope stabilisation using geo-synthetic materials and pre-cast concrete technology.

Early Openinq of Passes: BRO also ensured extended and early opening of crucial passes on strategically important roads along the borders, thereby enhancing the defence preparedness.

Road Safety Audit: Road Safety Audit and Correction works for reduction of Black Spots is under way across all Projects of BRO. Till date, approx 17,265 kms of roads have been audited across the country. As part of the Capacity Building in Road Safety, five BRO Officers have successfully completed a 14 weeks long Advanced Road Safety Certification Course at IIT Delhi.

Green Initiatives: To be at the forefront of India's decarbonisation efforts, BRO is focusing on creating environment friendly infrastructure. Energy Efficient Habitats at Leh using Energy Conservation Building Code norms and Net Carbon Neutral Habitats for Casual Paid Labourers (CPLs) and BRO personnel at work site locations are some of the initiatives towards this direction.

Rescue Operations Effort of BRO at Silkiyara Tunnel (Uttarakhand): A section of Silkyara tunnel which was being constructed by NHIDCL on NH-134 in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand collapsed in November trapping 41 workers on site. As part of the national effort, BRO undertook a task of construction of an 1,150m Approach Road for employment of drilling equipment (Vertical Shaft). The approach road was completed in record time of 48 hours. The trapped workers were rescued in November itself.

Restoration of Amarnath Yatra Tracks:The second phase of upgradation of the Amarnath Yatra Tracks commenced in September. The Baltal Track has been realigned and BRO has successfully inducted a vehicle up till the Holy Cave through Sangam Base. Thus the track has now been sufficiently widened for induction of essential supplies. Also the work on upgradation of Kalimata Track is in progress and will be made operational for the move of essential vehicles before the Amarnath Yatra of 2024.

Extension of provisions for Mortal Remains: The Raksha Mantri approved the extension of existing provisions of ‘Preservation and Transportation of the Mortal Remains’, available for General Reserve Engineer Force personnel of the BRO to CPLs. He has also approved an increase in funeral expenditure for the CPLs to Rs 10,000 from Rs 1,000. This will be borne by the Government in the event of a death of any CPL while on Government bonafide duty at BRO projects, whose last rites are being performed at the worksite.

Training Complex: Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt inaugurated the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Technical Training Complex and an Automated Driving Track in Pune during 64th Raising Day of BRO. These facilities will enhance the training standards of the BRO personnel and help them to be better prepared for various challenges. BRO-centric software, developed as part of ‘Digital India’ initiative, were also launched. These software - Recruitment Management System, Electronic Measurement Book & Work Management System - have been developed to automate various aspects of functioning of the BRO for smoother & faster output and increased transparency. An MoU was signed between the BRO and GRSE for construction of indigenous Class 70R Double Lane Modular Bridges. These bridges will help in bolstering the operational preparedness of the Armed Forces.

Nari Shakti

 

• Shattering the glass ceiling, Captain Shiva Chauhan became the first woman officer to get operationally deployed in Kumar Post, Siachen Glacier in January. Siachen is the world’s highest battlefield. In December, Captain Geetika Koul became the first woman medical officer to be deployed at Siachen after successfully completing the induction training at Siachen Battle School. Days later, Captain Fatima Wasim became the first woman medical officer to be deployed on an operational post on the Siachen Glacier.

 

• The command of units by Women Officers has commenced. This has tremendous potential and all efforts are on to ensure that this opportunity is capitalised by adequate guidance and support. Study on Induction of women as JCOs/OR in Arms & Services is underway.

 

• Lt Cdr Prerna Deosthalee was named as the first woman officer to command a Indian Naval Warship.

 

• The induction of Women Officers in the Regiment of Artillery is under progress. 10 Women officers were commissioned in the Regiment of Artillery during 2023

 

• The Indian Air Force deployed Group Captain Shaliza Dhami to take over the command of a frontline combat unit in the Western sector. She is the first woman to command any combat unit of IAF.

 

• Sqn Leader Manisha Padhi was named as India’s first Woman Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to a Governor (Mizoram).

 

• Army Medical Corps Officer Col Sunita became the first woman to command Armed Forces Transfusion Centre, Delhi Cantt, the largest blood transfusion centre of the Armed Forces.

 

• Air Marshal Sadhna S Nair assumed the appointment of Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces) in the office of DG Armed Forces Medical Services, becoming the first woman to hold the position.

 

• The process for induction of women officers in Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) commenced in March. Four have been inducted into RVC this year.

 

• 30 Army Girl Cadets are under training in National Defence Academy.

 

• Raksha Mantri approved a proposal for extension of rules for Maternity, Child Care and Child Adoption Leaves for women soldiers, sailors and air warriors in the Armed Forces at par with their officer counterparts.

 

Ex-servicemen Welfare

 

Major policy decisions, recent initiatives/achievements made during the year to bring about much required relief to the Ex-Servicemen and their dependents are as follows:

• The Government order for revision of pension of Armed Forces Pensioners/family pensioners under One Rank One Pension (OROP) w.e.f. July 01, 2019 has been issued on 04.01.2023. More than 25.13 lakh Armed Forces Pensioners/family pensioners have been benefitted.  Estimated additional annual expenditure for implementation of the revision calculated as approx. Rs 8,450 crore @31% Dearness Relief. The benefit also extended to family pensioners, including war widows and disabled pensioners.  Government of India had taken historic decision to implement One Rank One Pension (OROP) in November 2015 and issued orders on 7.11.2015 for implementation of OROP wef 1.07.2014. So far around Rs 93,000 crore has been additionally spent on this scheme in the last 9 years and this figure may exceed 1 lakh crore by end of this financial year. OROP has increased the income of the veterans which has enhanced their purchasing power and ensured better quality of life.
• The Government on 21.09.2023 issued the Entitlement Rules (ER) - 2023 for Casualty Pension and Disability Compensation Awards for Armed Forces Personnel and Guide to Medical Officers.  This has been done as per the direction issued by Cabinet in 2017 that the procedure and conditions for defining disability, assessing the degree of disability and determining the disability element of the pension shall be uniform across the civil and defence side, which shall also include similarly constituted Medical Boards.
• Enhancement of financial assistance made wef 11.08.2023 in respect of various welfare schemes funded out of the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund(AFFDF). The Vocational Training Grant for widows of ESM has been increased from  Rs. 20,000/- to Rs. 50,000/-(one time). The Medical Grant for non-pensioner ESM/their widows has been increased from Rs. 30,000/- to Rs. 50,000/-. The Serious Disease Grant for non-pensioner ESM/their widows has been increased from Rs. 1,25,000/- to Rs. 1,50,000/-(one time).
• During the FY 2022-23, an amount of Rs 250 crore has been paid from Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF)  and a total of 2.35 lakh  ESMs were benefitted through this initiative.
• An amount of Rs 52.54 crore was disbursed to 15,655 beneficiaries’ during the FY 2022-23 under the Prime Minister Scholarship Scheme (PMSS). 
• An amount of Rs 6,929.07 crore was allocated for the ECHS during the FY 2022-23. This is the highest budget allocation so far for the ECHS in any FY. This has helped clear major pendency of the  bills of empanelled hospitals and individual claims.
• The Government vide its order dated 05.04.2023 decided to confirm the ECHS membership to the existing ECHS beneficiaries of Army Postal Service (APS) holding 16/32 kb ECHS card or temporary slip and joined ECHS prior to 17.11.2016.
• During the year 2023, a total of 39,380 Ex-Servicemen (ESM) have been given resettlement  through Directorate General of Resettlement (DGR).  Out of these, approximately 32,000 have been given employment in security agencies. This is projected to grow in the coming years. The aim is to facilitate re-employment of ESM in the corporate sector and provide jobs through schemes for self employment.
• A special incentive of a one-time grant of Rs.2 Lakhs, in addition to normal incentives (Rs.5 Lakhs @ 15% of monthly purchase) has been granted to Ex-Servicemen under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojna (PMBJP) which aims at establishing nation-wide Generic Medicine pharmacies for providing cheaper medicines for the benefit of everyone. Ex-Servicemen can avail the same vide ‘Eligibility Certificate’ issued by DGR for the purpose. 

 

Major Events

• The Seventh Armed Forces Veterans’ Day was observed on January 14, 2023.  This year, the celebrations were up-scaled and major events were held at nine locations with Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh presiding over the main function in Dehradun.
• A Seminar on ‘Harnessing Partnership for Veterans Rehabilitation, Welfare & Medical Care’ was organised on 13.2.2023 at Aero India Convention Hall, Bangalore. It was presided over by Raksha Rajya Mantri, Shri Ajay Bhatt and attended by around 130 delegates from Corporate, Public Sector Undertaking, foundations and other leading  enterprises.
• The Board Meeting of Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) was held on 11.04.2023 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi under the chairmanship of   Raksha Mantri.  Post Lunch the meeting of Directors of Rajya Sainik Board (RSBs) was chaired by Secy (ESW).
• An updated version of the ‘Directory of Equation’ published by Directorate General of Resettlement (DGR) was released by Secy ESW on 25.04.2023.
• A day long “Chintan Shivir” was organised by the Department of Defence at New Delhi (DRDO Bhawan) on 06 July 2023 under the Chairmanship of Raksha Mantri. The points discussed include System for Pension Administration Raksha (SPARSH) for better pension services, Resettlement of veterans by improving employability and promotion of entrepreneurship for start of Micro Enterprises by veterans and improvement in the health services of the veterans.
• DESW including its Attached Offices and their field establishments conducted cleaniness drive under  Special Campaign on Disposal of Pending Matters (SCDPM 3.0) during the month of October 2023. The Campaign focussed on reduction of pendency, overall cleanliness of office and effective management of space.

 

Department of Defence Production

 

In continuous pursuit of self-reliance in defence manufacturing and to minimise imports by Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’, DDP notified 4th PIL of 928 items on May 12, 2023, which includes LRUs/ Sub-systems/Assemblies/Sub-assemblies, raw material, low value critical spares and components of DPSUs for time-bound indigenisation. These items are to be indigenised within the timelines of December 2023 to December 2029. As compared to previous year, 4500+ items of Srijan Portal including 173 PIL items, have been indigenised in this year.

 

• To give fillip to the ongoing indigenisation portal (wwwsrijandefence.gov.in) was launched in August 2020 for DPSUs/Services with an industry interface to provide development support to MSMEs/Startups/Industry for import substitution.
• The MoD has successfully indigenised 10,451 items during the period of 3 years since the launch of Srijan Portal. More than 34,000 items were uploaded by the DPSUs and Service Headquarters on Srijan Portal for indigenisation by Industry. This includes the 4,666 items under PILs being notified by DDP. 
• Standardisation of defence equipment/inventory is undertaken through 13 Standardisation Sub-Committees dealing with specialized equipment/ technologies. During 2023, a new Standardisation Sub-Committee namely, Marine Equipment Standardisation Sub-Committee, was formed to formulate Standards for Marine Equipment.
• During 2023, Training on Standardisation and Codification was imparted to 333 personnel of Tri-Services, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSPs), Ordnance Factories and civil industries, through two Training Institutes located at Pune and Badarpur (New Delhi).
• The 14th edition of Aero India-2023 was held from 13th–17th February at Bengaluru, Karnataka and has been the largest ever edition since its inception in 1996 with more than 100 countries, 809 exhibitors, first ever Fly past with 53 aircrafts showcasing our airpower to global attendees and a total footfall of 7+ lakh visitors over 05 days.
• Start-ups promotion was a focus area at Aero India-2023 with Indian Start-ups being showcased at an exclusive iDEX pavilion, India Pavilion and at the Chiefs of Air Staff Conclave. The Annual Start-up event ‘Manthan’ was also conducted. The maiden iDEX Investor Hub (iIH) was conducted with over Rs 200 crore pledged during iIH.
• A concerted effort was made towards forging B2B partnerships at the ‘Bandhan’ ceremony and more than 250 such partnerships with a total value of more than Rs 75,000 crore have been finalized. The partnerships are a step towards increasing traction for business, ToT and Joint development between the companies.

 

• Defence Exports:

Export leads received from various stakeholders are being disseminated to the registered Indian Defence Exporters through online portal. This facility helps the Indian defence exporters to quickly respond to export opportunities arising in other countries. The online portal has been upgraded with a feedback mechanism from Indian Industry for online monitoring/follow-up of the disseminated Export Leads. Total 245 leads have been disseminated through the portal since Jan’ 2023.

1. A coffee table book titled “Above Horizons: A Glimpse of Indian Aero Industry” was released by RM during Aero-India 2023 in Feb’ 2023.
2. In order to boost defence exports, webinars are being organized with Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) under the aegis of DDP, MoD through Industry Associations. Total 26 webinars have been organised since Jan’ 2023.
3. A scheme for financial assistance to Defence Attaches (DAs) for promotion of “Brand India” in defence is approved by RM in Nov’ 2023. Under this scheme DAs have been mandated for export promotion of Indigenous defence products of both public and private sector through enhanced financial grants to the Indian Missions. For FY 2023-24, DAs of 64 countries have been allocated a total of Rs. 3.76 crores.
4. An institutional Support Mechanism has been created for facilitation and handholding of Indian Defence Companies for promoting the export of UN Contingent Owned Equipment (COE) to Troop Contributing Countries.
5. In line with India’s Defence Export Strategy to enhance defence exports, 1310 Export Authorisations were issued by this Department to 73 countries during the year, having value of Rs. 13345 crore.

 

During the year 101 winners of iDEX challenges were declared, 131 contracts were signed and 15 prototypes were developed. Three versions of Defence India Start-up Challenges (DISC) i.e., DISC 8, DISC 9 & DISC X were launched. Three versions of Open Challenges, i.e., OC 7, OC 8 & OC 9 were launched.

iDEX in partnership with US DoD conducted the India-U.S. Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUX-X) Event in Washington DC, USA on 20-21 June 2023. The initiative will expand the strategic technology partnership and defence industrial cooperation between the start-up eco-system, businesses, and academic institutions.

iDEX Investor Hub (iIH) brought additional funding of INR 50 cr through ITI Growth Opportunities FUND (a venture capital fund of the Investment Trust of India group), raising the total iIH amount to INR 260 cr.

During SWAVLAMBAN 2023 event on 04.10.2023, Raksha Mantri has launched the following:

1. Along with 76 Challenges of DISC X, 5 problem statements under iDEX 4 Fauji and first 2 challenges under ‘INDUS-X Mutual Promotion of Advanced Collaborative Technologies’ (IMPACT were jointly launched by iDEX and United States Department of Defence (US, DoD).
2. iDEX- Navy Venture for Technology (iNVent): Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) and Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) entered into an MoU for jointly working on facilitating the infusion of Venture Capital into the defence ecosystem through the iDEX Investor Hub (iIH).

Indigenous Design & Development of Defence Systems has been undertaken through ‘Make Procedure’ provided under Defence Acquisition Procedure-2020. In the year 2023, 18 projects have been accorded ‘Approval-in-principle’ bringing the total tally to 149 projects. Also 11 projects have been accorded Accord of Necessity (AoN) this year, taking the number of AoN projects to 60.

Two Defence Industrial Corridors have been established at Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to boost Defence Manufacturing ecosystem in the country with intent to attract investment of Rs. 10,000 Crore in each DIC. In Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UPDIC), Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA), the nodal agency, has signed 138 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with industries etc. Actual investment of Rs. 2656 Crore have been made in UPDIC. In Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor (TNDIC), Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO), the nodal agency, has made arrangements through 57 MoUs etc. Actual investment of Rs. 4085 Crore have been made in TNDIC.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated HAL’s New Helicopter factory in Tumkuru to the nation on 6th Feb ’23. During the same event, Prime Minister unveiled HAL’s indigenously designed and developed Light Utility Helicopter (LUH).

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated first overseas regional marketing office of HAL in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 11th July ’23.

HAL received the 'State Export Excellence Award' (for the years 2017-18, 2018-19 & 2019-20) from Department of Industries and Commerce, Govt. of Karnataka under the category of 'Govt. of India Undertaking Exporter' on 22nd Jul’23.

HAL played key role in success of Chandrayaan-3 including on-time delivery of 30 types of riveted structure, six types of welded structure and the satellite's bus structure Rover, Lander and Castings & Forgings, appreciation received. 

ASTRA indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile, successfully fired from Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) LSP-7, off the coast of Goa on 23rdAug’23. All the objectives of the test were met. This was a joint effort by ADA and HAL.

HAL received DGCA approval under ‘CAR21 Subpart G’ for series production of Hindustan 228 aircraft, indigenously built, as Make-in-India project and ‘Maintenance Type Training Certificate’ under CAR147 under category B1 and B2 for imparting AME type rated licence on Hindustan-228 aircraft.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited HAL Bangalore on 25th Nov’23 and undertook a sortie on the LCA Tejas Twin Seater Aircraft. PM is the first Prime Minister of the Country who undertook a sortie in our home grown technology marvel-Tejas.

Indigenous Air Traffic Management System (ATMAS), jointly developed & installed by BEL and Airports Authority of India (AAI), was inaugurated & commissioned at Bhubaneswar airport on 27th Oct 2023.

Combat trial of indigenously developed Varunastra, a ship-launched anti-submarine heavy-weight torpedo (HWT) was successfully conducted on 6th June, 2023 by Indian Navy. The Torpedo was fired from a submarine and successfully hit an underwater target demonstrating the combat worthiness and capable of meeting the Navy’s operational requirements. BDL has manufactured and supplied the torpedo and associated in integration, torpedo preparation for sea trials and firing onboard ship.

BDL has launched three new products i.e., Vertically Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL SRSAM), SAL Seeker ATGM for BMP II and Drone Delivered Missile (JISHNU) during the Bandhan event at Aero India held in Feb 2023.

BDL carried out field firing of 3rd Generation Fire and Forget Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile named Amogha-III on 26.03.2023.

The i-ATS (Indigenous- Automatic Train Supervision) system, developed by BEL, was formally launched on the Red Line on 18th Feb 2023 from the Operations Control Centre (OCC), Shastri Park by Shri. Manoj Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs & Chairman, Delhi Metro.

MIDHANI indigenously developed SNI C276 sheets, a premier corrosion-resistant material. Alloy C276, strengthened with nickel, molybdenum, chromium, and a touch of tungsten, excels in oxidizing and reducing environments used for flue gas purification. This achievement was appreciated at BHEL SAMVAAD 3.0 held at New Delhi on November 9, 2023. On the occasion, MIDHANI was felicitated by Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey, Minister for Heavy Industries.

MIDHANI developed 1000th heat in the indigenously developed Vacuum Arc Remelting (VAR) furnace within 6 years. This milestone showcases MIDHANI’s commitment to Aatma Nirbhar Bharat.

MIDHANI launched five newly developed products and signed 11 MoUs in the 14th edition of Aero Show ‘Aero India 2023’, organised by BEL along with HAL, held at Yelahanka, Bengaluru from 13-17 Feb 2023.

The 4th ship of Project-17A “Mahendragiri”, built by MDL, was launched on 01 Sep 2023 by Dr. Sudesh Dhankar wife Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankar.

On the occasion of 250th year of MDL, Defence Secretary, Shri Girdhar Armane, unveiled the Customised Corporate MDL stamps released by Indian Postal Services on 25th Sep 2023.

Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) and Foundation for Science innovation and development, IISC Bengaluru signed MoU on 29 July 2023 towards fostering joint development and implementation of AI technologies in the field of Shipbuilding & Defence applications.

GSL & Kenya Shipyards Limited signed MoU in Capacity Building & for collaboration in Ship Design & Construction, during the Bilateral Meeting held between   Defence Minister of india, Shri Rajnath Singh &   Cabinet Secretary for Defence, H.E. Aden Bare Duale in New Delhi.

GSL has introduced Policy for Advance training of Ex Apprentices, contributing towards Kaushal Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives of the Government of India by creating a pool of trained manpower for the shipbuilding industry of the nation.

Yard ‘Infrastructure Augmentation Plan’ worth Rs. 1393.55 Cr was executed in five phases & completed in all manners on 31 Mar 2023 by GSL.

Two Diving Support Vessels (DSV), indigenously designed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), are being built for Indian Navy for the first time by an Indian yard.

HSL has received 03 Inmex Maritime Excellence Awards in categories of Best Ship Repair Company, Best Technology Innovation and Women Leadership Award.

The first edition of the annual Rajbhasha magazine “AVANI-PRAVAH” published by AVNL Corporate Office, Avadi has been awarded the second best magazine by the Town Official Language Implementation Committee (PSU), Chennai.

IOL has signed 13 MOUs valuing approx Rs 6,100 crore for cooperation in designing, development, manufacture, upgradation etc. Of new products/ technologies with different parties like M/s BEML Limited etc.

In pursuance of MoD’s policy to promote ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ Programmes, IOL has indigenised many ex-import components/sub-assemblies using Srijan portal. IOL has placed 101 Project sanction orders on Indian Manufacturers, under Make-II scheme of DAP-2020 and 8 RFPs/EOIs have also been published. IOL has 189 items in PIL1 and 47 items in PIL3 Lists, out of which 184 Items have already been indigenised. IOL has also sponsored 5 innovative technology projects under iDEX.

‘Run For Unity’ was conducted on 31 Oct 23 across all DPSUs, on the occasion of national Unity Day.