Op Sindoor marked a decisive victory for armed forces, with DAD ensuring financial resilience: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh
(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) on Wednesday for its vital behind-the-scenes work that keeps the nation’s armed forces strong. Speaking at the department’s 278th Foundation Day event in New Delhi, Singh highlighted DAD’s key role in Operation Sindoor, where it ensured smart resource use, solid financial management, and constant readiness for the military.
As the world watched Indian troops show incredible bravery to secure a major win in that operation, Singh noted, DAD quietly made it all possible. “The entire world witnessed the valour and courage of the Armed Forces in achieving a historic and decisive victory,” he said. “But the silent yet crucial role of DAD ensured efficient resource utilisation, financial management, and war preparedness.”
Singh called DAD more than just an accounting team—it’s the unseen link that ties finance to the front lines, helping soldiers get what they need on time. He stressed that a strong nation’s power starts with a solid financial base, and he commended DAD for hitting 100% budget use in the last financial year. By September 30 this year, the team had already booked 50% of the capital budget spending.
Under India’s Digital India push, Singh applauded DAD’s tech upgrades like e-Raksha Awaas, NIDHI 2.0, TULIP 2.0, and the AI chatbot Gyan Sathi. These steps show DAD’s drive for more efficiency and openness in defence finance. “They underline India’s determination to move towards a digitally empowered defence finance system,” Singh added.
With modern wars relying heavily on technology, Singh urged DAD to step up support for research and development (R&D). As keepers of the defence budget, he said, “Your role in enabling and encouraging R&D is vital for building the future capabilities of our Armed Forces.”
Singh also pushed DAD to help foster teamwork across the army, navy, and air force through smarter financial processes. “You have a presence from the grassroots level to the headquarters of all three Services,” he told them. “Work closely with the Services to boost jointness and integration.”
On procurement, Singh pointed to the new Defence Procurement Manual 2025, which speeds up buying essentials and boosts self-reliance in India. A review of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) is also underway to simplify big-ticket purchases.
He highlighted other efforts, like Market Intelligence Reports and a Vision Document, to turn DAD into a top hub for defence finance and economics. Singh directed the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) to create a full action plan for this.
Balancing strict rules with real needs is key, Singh emphasized. “Every rupee belongs to the people of India,” he said. “But you must also ensure operational readiness for our forces—uphold rules while meeting their needs quickly through better coordination.”
At the event, Singh unveiled the Comprehensive Statistical Handbook on Defence Expenditure (COSHE) 2025 and an updated Army Local Audit Manual (ALAM). He also launched digital tools like NIDHI 2.0 and the AI-driven Gyan Sathi. Raksha Mantri Awards for Excellence 2025 went to standout teams and individuals for their reform work.
Top officials joined the celebrations, including Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat, Financial Advisor Dr Mayank Sharma, CGDA Raj Kumar Arora, and many senior and retired DAD staff.
Marking 278 years since its start in 1747, DAD remains the financial backbone of India’s Armed Forces. It handles audits, accounting, pensions, and expert advice to keep the military running smoothly.
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