Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday praised the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) for its silent yet pivotal contribution during Operation Sindoor, highlighting the department’s role in efficient financial management, resource utilisation, and ensuring war preparedness. His remarks came during the 278th Foundation Day celebrations of DAD.
Addressing the gathering, Singh underscored the department’s historic legacy and its status as the financial backbone of India’s Armed Forces. “The DAD is not just an accounting organisation; it is an enabler ensuring the smooth functioning of the nation’s economic cycle. It is the invisible bridge connecting finance and the Armed Forces. Behind the valour of our soldiers lies your silent but decisive contribution,” he said.
The Defence Minister also highlighted DAD’s adoption of technology through initiatives like e-Raksha Awaas, the upgrade from NIDHI 1.0 to NIDHI 2.0, and the ongoing transition to TULIP 2.0. He called these reforms a demonstration of the department’s proactive approach toward efficiency, transparency, and a digitally empowered defence finance system.
Emphasising the importance of defence research and development (R&D), Singh said, “New technologies often become the surprise element in modern warfare, stemming from years of research. It is crucial to foster an innovative ecosystem supporting R&D in defence.”
Singh further urged DAD to act as a financial enabler of Tri-Service jointness and integration, noting, “You have a presence from grassroots to headquarters across all three services. Work closely with the Services to enhance synergy through financial processes; this will yield positive results.”
He also stressed the need for speed and efficiency in defence procurement, pointing out the launch of the Defence Procurement Manual 2025 to expedite revenue procurement and promote self-reliance. Additionally, ongoing reviews of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) aim to streamline capital procurement, ensuring timely and effective acquisition of defence assets.