Raksha Mantri unveils Delegation of Financial Powers to DRDO (DFP-2026)

📌 Summary:

• Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh released the Delegation of Financial Powers to DRDO (DFP-2026) on 29 June 2026
• It is a major reform to enhance efficiency, accountability and timely execution of strategic R&D projects
• DFP-2026 will speed up production and induction of DRDO-developed systems, platforms and technologies into the Defence Forces
• Framework fosters stronger collaboration with industry and academia, reinforcing the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision in defence
• It significantly enhances functional and financial empowerment at various levels within the Department of Defence R&D
• Includes dedicated financial provisions for trial campaigns, testing and other critical requirements

🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS3 (Science & Technology / Defence) — indigenisation of defence technology, R&D ecosystem reform, and self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) in strategic sectors.

📝 Prelims Facts:

• DRDO operates under the Department of Defence R&D, Ministry of Defence
• Reform titled DFP-2026 (Delegation of Financial Powers)
• Released by the Raksha Mantri on 29 June 2026

🔑 Key Term: Delegation of Financial Powers (DFP) — a framework that devolves financial approval authority to lower levels of an organisation to cut delays and improve execution.