The North News
New Delhi, March 20
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has cleared a deal worth nearly ₹7,000 crore to procure Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) for the Indian Army, marking a significant push towards domestic defence manufacturing.
The ATAGS, India’s first indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured 155 mm artillery gun, is expected to enhance the operational capabilities of the armed forces with its advanced technology and firepower.
Initially showcased at the 2017 Republic Day Parade, the ATAGS procurement has faced delays, finally receiving approval after eight years. The decision comes amid concerns over India’s slow and bureaucratic defence procurement process, which Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan recently highlighted as an area requiring reform.
The Government of India hailed the deal as a milestone in self-reliance, reinforcing the country’s commitment to ‘Make in India’ and reducing dependence on foreign arms suppliers. However, the long approval timeline underscores the challenge of streamlining defence acquisitions for faster deployment of critical military assets.
