India has unveiled the Defence Procurement Manual (DPM) 2025, a comprehensive framework designed to enhance transparency, efficiency, and innovation in defence acquisitions. Announced on September 14, 2025, the new manual aims to accelerate procurement processes while ensuring accountability and cost-effectiveness. It represents a significant step toward modernizing India’s defence capabilities and fostering a culture of self-reliance in military preparedness.

A key focus of the DPM 2025 is promoting jointness across the armed forces. By streamlining procedures for multi-service requirements, the manual seeks to reduce duplication, optimize resource allocation, and improve operational readiness. The framework encourages coordinated planning and procurement between the Army, Navy, and Air Force, ensuring that equipment and technologies meet the integrated needs of India’s defence forces.

The manual also emphasizes fostering indigenous innovation and leveraging contributions from startups, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and academia. By simplifying participation norms and incentivizing local development, the DPM 2025 aims to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen India’s domestic defence industry. Initiatives include faster approvals, clear guidelines for contract awards, and support mechanisms for research and development.

Transparency and accountability are central to the new framework. The manual introduces measures for clear documentation, audit-friendly procedures, and timely reporting, ensuring that procurement processes are efficient, fair, and corruption-resistant. These reforms are expected to enhance trust among stakeholders, attract investment in defence manufacturing, and build long-term strategic capabilities.

Furthermore, the DPM 2025 aligns with India’s broader defence policy objectives, including ‘Make in India’ and self-reliance, while ensuring that cutting-edge technologies and innovations are integrated into the armed forces. By encouraging collaboration across government, industry, and academia, the manual seeks to strengthen India’s position as a global defence player.

Overall, the Defence Procurement Manual 2025 represents a blueprint for modernizing procurement, fostering innovation, and achieving operational excellence, while contributing to India’s strategic autonomy and enhanced defence preparedness.