The Defence Ministry has approved changes in Defence Procurement Procedure to infuse greater efficiency in the procurement process and strengthen the defence manufacturing base in the country. The decision was taken at Defence Acquisition Council meeting chaired by the Defence Minister A.K Antony.

Antony said rapid indigeniouzation of defence products with both the public and private sectors playing pivotal roles is the only way forward for the country. He said, the government will make all efforts to create genuine level playing field for Indian manufacturing industries and Global Players.

The approved changes include release of a public version of its 15-year perspective document and a preferred order of categorization, with global cases being a choice of last resort. The first option would be to buy from India followed by buy and make India. Private and public sector firms can tie up with foreign vendors and produce the equipment required by the armed forces within the country.

In the meeting, the Defence Minister also gave up his powers to approve deviations from Defence Procurement Procedure to the Defence Acquisition Council instead of the Defence Minister.