SP Guide Publications puts forth a well compiled articulation of issues, pursuits and accomplishments of the Indian Army, over the years
I am confident that SP Guide Publications would continue to inform, inspire and influence.
My compliments to SP Guide Publications for informative and credible reportage on contemporary aerospace issues over the past six decades.
Despite the declared intention of the new government to bring about changes in the defence procurement system such as to reduce the time taken to complete the acquisition process, inclusion of the private sector to bid for tenders and end the monopoly of the defence public sector undertakings (DPSU), nothing much seems to have been done so far.
After more than one year that the musicians have been changed, the music continues to remain the same. The most favourite tune is “New deal declared”. But the fact is that the deal remains declared only!
Despite the declared intention of the new government to bring about changes in the defence procurement system such as to reduce the time taken to complete the acquisition process, inclusion of the private sector to bid for tenders and end the monopoly of the defence public sector undertakings (DPSU), nothing much seems to have been done so far.
Tenders under processing for years with the previous government, still await their turn of finalisation despite the fact that nearly a year has gone by since the new government has taken over. Some of these are:
‘Make in India’ is the new slogan these days all around. However, companies that are already partnering activity with the DPSUs in projects where the Made in India content is 50 per cent or more, are rather penalised due to the lack of decision-making towards “go ahead” for a number of contracts that are awaiting final clearance by the government.
Off-set banking for up to a million euros as requested by companies offering high-end technology is still awaiting clearance.
Foreign companies are welcome to come to India to invest in technology. However the mute question is how a company can decide to invest in India with the factors below:
Finally, the frustration of foreign companies that are completely blind with regard to the bureaucratic procedures is too steep. For years the companies involved in the tendering process have received no response to their offers against the tender or subsequent queries. Letters written to the concerned authorities are possibly consigned to the dustbin at the earliest opportunity.
Does this scenario call for radical changes in the procedure and attitude of those in charge to make India an attractive destination for foreign investments? Need to be answered.
— Name withheld on request