The Defence Minister Rajnath Singh released the Delegation of Financial Powers to DRDO (DFP-2026), introducing a major reform aimed at enhancing efficiency, accountability, and timely execution of strategic research and development projects. The revised framework is designed to accelerate the development, production, and induction of defence systems, platforms, and technologies into the Armed Forces.
According to the Defence Minister, the new structure will strengthen collaboration between industry and academia while supporting the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. He added that the framework will improve self-reliance in defence technologies and enhance the nation’s overall defence preparedness.
DFP-2026 significantly increases functional empowerment across various levels within the Defence Research and Development organisation. It introduces dedicated financial provisions for trial campaigns, testing and evaluation activities, approval authority for pre-project R&D initiatives, and clearer segregation of financial powers for grants-in-aid. This includes Extra-Mural Research Projects, Defence Innovation Accelerator–Centres of Excellence, and Technology Development Fund initiatives under respective schedules.
The event was attended by senior officials including the Chief of Defence Staff, Defence Secretary and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Secretary (Defence Production), Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare), Controller General of Defence Accounts, and senior directors from DRDO and related departments in New Delhi.
