Prepare a roadmap to make DAD a ‘Centre of Excellence’ in defence finance & economics: Rajnath

The Raksha Mantri acknowledged DAD’s vital role in supporting the vast Ministry of Defence network, including the Armed Forces, Indian Coast Guard, and Border Roads Organisation, among others.

During the 277th Annual Day celebrations of the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on October 1, 2024, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh commended the department’s progress in modernizing defence finance and pension administration. One of the notable achievements is the successful linking of 30 lakh out of 32 lakh defence pensioners to the SPARSH (System for Pension Administration (Raksha)) portal, a significant step in streamlining pension distribution without external intermediaries.

The SPARSH system is a web-based platform that directly credits pensions to defence personnel’s bank accounts, ensuring transparency and efficiency. Despite challenges, DAD has successfully implemented this system, enhancing the lives of lakhs of pensioners.

In recognition of DAD's achievements, the Raksha Mantri launched several new publications, including the SPARSH Audit Manual, the Comprehensive Statistical Handbook on Defence Expenditure (COSHE) 2024, the Market Intelligence Report 2023-24, and an upgraded Defence Travel System 2.0.

SPARSH: Streamlining Pension Administration

The SPARSH system integrates more than 500 automated rules and 1,000 on-screen validations to ensure accuracy and integrity in the pension distribution process. With DAD at the helm, the newly launched SPARSH Audit Manual will guide officers and staff in monitoring system processes and maintaining uniform rule application for defence pensioners. Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of internal audits to further enhance the functionality and accountability of the SPARSH system.

COSHE 2024 and Market Intelligence Report

The Comprehensive Statistical Handbook on Defence Expenditure (COSHE) 2024, published by the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA), provides insights into defence expenditure trends since 2010-11, with legacy data dating back to 1992-93. This data is vital for policy makers to ensure the optimal use of defence funds and support the government's Atmanirbhar Bharat mission for self-reliance in the defence sector.

Shri Rajnath Singh also inaugurated the Market Intelligence Report 2023-24, which provides detailed insights into vendor and product profiles on the GeM (Government e-Marketplace) platform. The report highlights procurement patterns across the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and DRDO, helping to improve procurement reforms and support domestic industries, MSMEs, and start-ups.

Upgraded Defence Travel System 2.0

DAD's Defence Travel System (DTS), first launched in 2009, has been a significant tool for managing travel bookings for defence personnel. DTS 2.0 offers comprehensive technological upgrades, including integration with accounting systems, ensuring that travel claims are processed efficiently. The platform currently serves over 7,325 units with more than 18 lakh active users.

The Road Ahead: Excellence in Defence Finance

Shri Rajnath Singh called on DAD to continue its modernization efforts and strive to become a "Centre of Excellence" in defence finance and economics. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive data management system to analyze the impact of defence spending on the economy, including the contribution of defence vendors in employment and revenue generation. This would aid in the development of holistic policies and align with the government’s goal of self-reliance.

The Raksha Mantri acknowledged DAD’s vital role in supporting the vast Ministry of Defence network, including the Armed Forces, Indian Coast Guard, and Border Roads Organisation, among others. DAD serves as a financial and administrative link, ensuring that policies related to self-reliance and defence acquisitions are smoothly implemented.

Awards for Excellence

To mark the day, the Raksha Mantri Awards for Excellence 2024 were presented to two teams: the PCDA (Pensions) Prayagraj for redressing grievances and the PIFA (Air Force) New Delhi for implementing the Automatic Replenishment System (ARS) Scale Analysis.

DAD's Legacy of Service

Established in 1747, the Defence Accounts Department continues to evolve to meet the modern-day demands of the Armed Forces. The department's commitment to internal audits, financial advice, and pension management ensures its pivotal role in the nation’s defence ecosystem.