DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
JAMMU, Aug 5
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan has emphasized the necessity of adapting financial processes to address the rapidly evolving nature of warfare, driven by shifting geopolitical dynamics and technological advancements. In a keynote address at an apex-level conference held on August 5, 2024, in New Delhi, Gen Chauhan highlighted the need for financial strategies to keep pace with these changes, which have led to a non-linear and unpredictable evolution in military operations.
The conference, focused on enhancing financial cohesion and synergy within the Armed Forces, was attended by Vice Chiefs of Service Headquarters, senior officials from Service HQs, Coast Guard HQ, Ministry of Defence (MoD) Acquisition, MoD Finance, Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA), and Principal Integrated Financial Advisors (PIFAs). Steered by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), the event aimed at improving efficiency in defense procurement processes while adhering to established financial protocols.
Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (PP&FD) Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan opened the discussions by addressing the complexities involved in defense procurements. Financial Adviser (Defence Services) Shri Sugata Ghosh Dastidar emphasized the importance of reducing dependence on foreign sources and advancing towards self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta). He also advocated for greater collaboration with academia to foster research and development in the defense sector.
The conference provided a platform for stakeholders to present their perspectives and discuss strategies to enhance financial cohesion and synergy. Service HQs shared insights into their specific challenges related to public procurement, and discussions focused on methodologies to address these issues. PIFAs actively engaged in critical discussions regarding capital and revenue procurements, while MoD Finance offered constructive suggestions and recommendations.
Key deliverables from the conference included the importance of an Outcome-Oriented Budget, expeditious procurement processes, and maintaining financial propriety. These key takeaways are set to be forwarded to the Ministry of Defence for ratification. The conference underscored the commitment to refining financial processes to better align with the evolving demands of modern warfare and ensure national security.
