The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) – the highest decision-making body of the Ministry of Defence for capital acquisitions – has approved defence purchase proposals worth around ₹52,000 crore. Chaired by the Defence Minister, the DAC grants ‘Acceptance of Necessity’ (AoN) for new equipment, and such approvals strengthen the armed forces while promoting indigenous manufacturing under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
What is the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)?
The Defence Acquisition Council is the apex decision-making body within the Ministry of Defence for procurement of defence equipment and platforms. It was set up to ensure speedy decision-making in defence acquisitions in line with the needs of the armed forces. It is chaired by the Union Defence Minister.
What is ‘Acceptance of Necessity’ (AoN)?
Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) is the first formal approval in the defence procurement process. When the DAC grants AoN for a proposal, it signals that the requirement is accepted and the acquisition process can begin. It does not mean immediate purchase but is a crucial starting step.
Significance of the Approval
- Boosts the capability and readiness of the armed forces.
- Encourages indigenous defence manufacturing and reduces import dependence.
- Supports the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.
- Generates employment and strengthens the domestic defence industrial base.
Exam-Relevant Key Facts
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) functions under which ministry?
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Correct Answer: (B) Ministry of Defence
The DAC functions under the Ministry of Defence.
2. Who chairs the Defence Acquisition Council?
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Correct Answer: (B) Defence Minister
The DAC is chaired by the Defence Minister.
3. What does "AoN" stand for in defence procurement?
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Correct Answer: (B) Acceptance of Necessity
AoN means Acceptance of Necessity.
4. The DAC is the highest decision-making body for which type of proposals?
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Correct Answer: (B) Capital acquisition
It approves capital acquisition proposals.
5. Large DAC approvals mainly aim to strengthen:
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Correct Answer: (B) Armed forces capabilities
They strengthen armed forces capabilities.
6. The DAC promotes which national initiative in defence?
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Correct Answer: (B) Atmanirbhar Bharat
The DAC promotes Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance).
7. "Acceptance of Necessity" is which stage of a defence deal?
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Correct Answer: (B) First formal approval
AoN is the first formal approval stage.
8. Prioritising Indian vendors in procurement supports:
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Correct Answer: (B) Indigenous manufacturing
It supports indigenous manufacturing.
9. The approved amount of ₹52,000 crore is a measure of:
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Correct Answer: (B) Capital procurement value
It represents the value of capital procurement approved.
10. A stronger domestic defence industry primarily reduces:
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Correct Answer: (B) Import dependence
It reduces dependence on defence imports.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ What is the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)?
The DAC is the highest decision-making body in the Ministry of Defence for approving capital acquisition proposals for the armed forces. It is chaired by the Defence Minister.
❓ Who heads the Defence Acquisition Council?
The DAC is chaired by the Union Defence Minister of India.
❓ What does AoN mean in defence procurement?
AoN stands for "Acceptance of Necessity", the first formal approval granted by the DAC for a defence acquisition proposal.
❓ Why are such large defence approvals significant?
They strengthen the armed forces’ capabilities, promote indigenous manufacturing under "Make in India" / Atmanirbhar Bharat, and boost the domestic defence industry.
❓ How does the DAC support Atmanirbhar Bharat?
By prioritising procurement from Indian vendors and domestic manufacturers, the DAC promotes self-reliance in defence production.
