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New Delhi: The government on Friday said it accorded the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) or in-principle approval for procurement of military equipment worth ₹1,83,778 crore since 2020-21. Under India’s defence acquisition norms, AoN is the first step toward procurement of any military equipment and hardware. After the grant of AoN, tendering and contracting process is undertaken by the respective services and the ministry of defence.

“In the period 2020-21 to 2022-23 (till June 30), 59 AoNs amounting to ₹1,83,778.34 crore have been accorded and 91 contracts amounting to ₹1,19,045.3 crore have been concluded,” Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt said in Lok Sabha.

He was replying to a question on the issue.

“Capital acquisition of defence equipment is carried out as per provisions of Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP). The DAP-2020 lays down the timelines for completion of acquisition activities,”Ajay Bhatt said.

“Further, the activities are regularly monitored so as to ensure finalisation of proposals and conclusion of contracts expeditiously,” he added.

To a separate question, Ajay Bhatt said women are being recruited as officers in the Indian Navy since 1992 and they are employed in various branches and specializations.

“Consequent to Department of Military Affairs’ notification No. RP/3312/Women dated 23rd June 2022, women are also eligible for appointment as sailors in the Indian Navy,” he said.