In a significant move aimed at enhancing the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and fostering self-reliance in the Defence sector, the Department of Defence Production, under the Ministry of Defence, has announced a reorganization of the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA). This initiative is geared towards streamlining Quality Assurance processes, expediting trials, and reducing bureaucratic layers.
Restructuring DGQA
The restructuring of DGQA also takes into account changes in the Quality Assurance methodology and the revised role of DGQA following the corporatization of Ordnance Factories (OFB). With the transformation of Ordnance Factories into new Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), coupled with increased involvement of private defence industry and the Government’s push for indigenization, there arose a necessity to revamp DGQA to better support the evolving defence manufacturing landscape.
Also Read | India’s first indigenously-made 1500 HP engine for Main Battle Tanks test fired at BEML in Mysuru
DGQA has already undertaken various organizational and functional reforms following extensive consultations with stakeholders across the defence manufacturing ecosystem. The newly proposed structure aims to provide consolidated technical support for complete equipment and weapon platforms across all levels, ensuring standardized quality assurance processes for products.
Additionally, the reorganization introduces a separate Directorate of Defence Testing and Evaluation Promotion, facilitating transparent allocation of Proof Ranges and testing facilities. This setup, combined with the automation and digitization of standardized Quality Assurance processes, is expected to significantly enhance the engagement of the Defence Industry with DGQA.
The restructured framework, along with ongoing functional reforms, will catalyze the indigenization efforts under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative. It will provide access to Indian standards or their equivalents to guide manufacturers within the country, thereby fostering the production and export of high-quality, qualified defence equipments and products.
Also Read | BEML Ltd Establishes District Office in Pune to Enhance Defence Industrial Collaboration