Defence Offset ' Pinks '

It may be difficult to ‘swallow’ an argument that Indian Defence Industry, Govt. and Civil, are not ready to absorb offsets accruing from the ongoing defence projects. Similarly, it may not be a very valid take that any co-development/co-production, low-tech or high-tech, for a system would not develop/build the indigenous defense industry capability; technologies can be put to multifarious usage, contracts permitting.

Recent changes in the Offset Policy in DPP 2011 are to be welcomed. Civil aviation, homeland security and training – equipment, academies, etc – could help our Industry manifold. We need to ensure that we regulate and manage the offsets pragmatically.

The Govt. had initially permitted Direct/Quasi-Direct offsets, but review(s) of the Policy has brought in new areas where offsets can also be discharged. We need not unduly burden ourselves with ‘likely scams syndrome’; just play sincerely and transparently. Everything will fall in place.

Offsets for any major pgme like MMRCA/Others would encompass a fair mix of products/services delivered by an Obligor in certain % in the Offset Programs. These could relate to:

Co-development & Co-production, say about 40%.
Direct Offset Pgms including Infrastructure, say about 30%.
General Indian Defence Industry , say about 20%.
General Security, Training and Civil Aviation Pgms, say about 10%.

DAC/MOD, I am sure, would prioritize, and fix % of offsets delivery in various areas in discussions with the Obligors. And monitor implementation of the pgmes effectively.

Advocacy/Any Fear Psychosis should not derail our acquisition pgms.

Svipja Technologies