 during the 278th Foundation Day){kind=link}
OCT 01: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the vital role of the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) during the 278th Foundation Day celebrations in New Delhi. While Operation Sindoor showcased the bravery and strategic success of India’s Armed Forces, Shri Singh emphasised that the DAD’s meticulous financial management, resource optimisation, and operational support were equally crucial to achieving this historic victory.
Describing DAD as “more than an accounting organisation,” the Raksha Mantri called it an enabler connecting finance with the Armed Forces, ensuring fiscal prudence, timely resource availability, and operational readiness. He praised the department for achieving 100% budget utilisation in the previous financial year and efficiently booking 50% of the capital budget as of September 30, 2025.
Shri Rajnath Singh lauded technology-enabled reforms under Digital India, including e-Raksha Awaas, NIDHI 2.0, TULIP 2.0, and the AI-based ‘Gyan Sathi’ chatbot, which enhance efficiency, transparency, and stakeholder engagement. He highlighted DAD’s role in supporting defence R&D through initiatives like i-DEX, Technology Development Fund, and DRDO projects.
Urging DAD to act as a financial enabler for Tri-Service Jointness and integration, the Raksha Mantri called for a balance between strict financial discipline and operational requirements. He also stressed reforms in defence procurement and data-driven planning, highlighting COSHE-2025, the Army Local Audit Manual, and other publications as instruments for informed decision-making.
Awards for Excellence 2025 were presented to teams and individuals demonstrating innovation, professionalism, and efficiency in defence financial management. Shri Singh reaffirmed that DAD’s sustained contribution, from grassroots to headquarters, strengthens the Armed Forces while maintaining financial accountability, making it an indispensable pillar of national defence.