Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) for its critical role in ensuring fiscal discipline and assisting the armed services. Speaking at an event commemorating the DAD’s 278th anniversary, Singh emphasized the organization’s silent but critical contribution to India’s military readiness, particularly during Operation Sindoor, when timely management of financial resources was critical to ensure war readiness.
While the world watched the courage and resolve of India’s armed forces during Operation Sindoor, Singh emphasized the DAD’s behind-the-scenes efforts to maintain seamless financial flows. The department established the foundation for efficient resource allocation, allowing the military to focus on operations without sacrificing logistics or preparedness.
The minister defined the DAD as more than just an accounting organization, referring to it as the financial backbone of India’s defence establishment. The department is critical to the armed services’ operational effectiveness because it ensures fiscal discipline, transparency, and prompt resource distribution. He stressed that this financial discipline directly improves India’s ability to respond quickly during times of crisis.
Singh compared the department to a “invisible bridge” that links finance and the military. He emphasized that the smooth operation of the nation’s economic and defense infrastructure is dependent on the DAD’s work. Behind every soldier’s bravery, he added, is the unseen but crucial job of financial administrators who provide stability and efficiency in supporting critical defense needs.
Singh emphasized the necessity of solid financial institutions, describing finance as “the lifeblood of governance.” He claimed that a nation’s greatness is inextricably linked to its financial base. In this context, the DAD’s persistent ability to strike a balance between fiscal conservatism and national security concerns was cited as an example of institutional efficiency.
In terms of present performance, the Defence Minister admitted that as of September 30, 50% of the defence capital budget expenditure had already been booked. This timely and effective use of resources demonstrates the DAD’s expertise and ability to keep major defence procurement and modernisation programs on track.
Finally, Singh praised the department’s historic history, stating that it has served as a silent enabler of India’s defense system since its foundation. Throughout wars, crises, and periods of rapid military modernization, the DAD has maintained financial responsibility by balancing fiscal openness with the strategic requirements of a robust and nimble defense apparatus.
