MoD Seals Rs 5,336.25 Crore Deal With BEL For 10-year Supply Of Electronic Fuzes

 

The Ministry of Defence, in a significant development on December 15, 2023, sealed a landmark contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Pune. This groundbreaking agreement entails the procurement of Electronic Fuzes for the Indian Army over a 10-year period, amounting to a total cost of Rs 5,336.25 crore.

Aligned with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat‘ vision, this contract is a crucial step towards achieving self-sufficiency in ammunition manufacturing and securing the nation’s defense needs for the next decade.

Aatmanirbhar Bharat Initiative

  • The contract is executed under the ‘Manufacture of Ammunition for Indian Army by Indian Industry,’ a strategic initiative by the Government of India.
  • This initiative aims to meet the long-term ammunition requirements of the Indian Army while reducing dependence on imports.
  • The overarching goal is to build robust ammunition stocks, promote indigenous manufacturing, acquire critical technologies, and safeguard against supply chain disruptions.

Significance of Electronic Fuzes

  • Electronic Fuzes play a pivotal role as integral components of medium to heavy-caliber artillery guns.
  • These fuzes provide sustained artillery firepower, a critical capability for military operations.
  • The procurement of Electronic Fuzes is a strategic move to enhance the Indian Army’s operational capabilities, particularly in lethal engagements across various terrains, including high-altitude areas along the Northern Borders.

Manufacturing Centers: Pune and Nagpur

  • Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will spearhead the manufacturing of Electronic Fuzes at its existing Pune facility and the upcoming Nagpur Plant.
  • This distribution of manufacturing centers ensures efficient production and contributes to the resilience of the supply chain.
  • The involvement of these facilities highlights BEL’s commitment to delivering high-quality products that meet the stringent requirements of the Indian Army.

Employment Generation and Industry Participation

  • The Electronic Fuzes procurement project is not only a strategic move for defense preparedness but also a catalyst for economic development.
  • The initiative is expected to generate employment for one and a half lakh man-days, providing livelihoods and contributing to the economic growth of the region.
  • Furthermore, active participation of Indian industries, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), in ammunition manufacturing will foster a broader ecosystem for ammunition production in the country.

Questions Related to Exams

Q1. Which company is involved in the procurement of Electronic Fuzes for the Indian Army?

A: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Pune.

Q2. How much is the total cost of the contract for Electronic Fuzes procurement?

A: Rs 5,336.25 crore.

Q3. What is the strategic aim of the project related to ammunition stocks?

A: To minimize imports, achieve self-sufficiency, obtain critical technologies, and secure stock against supply chain disruption.

 

 

 

 

Saurabh

Recent Posts

World’s AIDS Vaccine Day 2024: Date, Theme, History and Significance

World AIDS Vaccine Day, also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, is observed annually on…

5 hours ago

Coal India, NMDC, ONGC Videsh Seek Overseas Critical Mineral Assets

The Indian government has announced plans for public sector companies like Coal India, NMDC, and…

7 hours ago

India’s April Trade Performance: Exports Inch Up, Trade Deficit Widens

In April, India's merchandise exports saw a modest 1% increase, reaching $34.99 billion, driven by…

7 hours ago

DPIIT Reports Over 7 Million Transactions on ONDC Platform in April

The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), a digital infrastructure initiative launched in 2021, has…

7 hours ago

SBI Raises Short-Term Retail Fixed Deposit Rates Amidst Economic Shifts

In response to rising credit demand and falling liquidity, State Bank of India (SBI) has…

8 hours ago

Indian Army Set to Receive Russian Igla-S Air Defence Systems

The Indian Army is poised to elevate its air defense capabilities with the impending delivery…

8 hours ago