“While the entire world witnessed the valour and courage of the Armed Forces in achieving a historic and decisive victory during Operation Sindoor, the silent yet crucial role of Defence Accounts Department (DAD) ensured efficient resource utilisation, financial management and war preparedness,” highlighted Rajnath Singh during the celebrations of the 278th Foundation Day of the DAD, organised in New Delhi on October 01, 2025. He commended the Department for its historic legacy and its continuing role as the financial backbone of India’s Armed Forces. He described DAD as an institution that not only ensures fiscal prudence and transparency but also strengthens operational readiness by enabling timely availability of resources to the Services.
“The DAD is not just an accounting organisation; it is an enabler that ensures the smooth functioning of the nation’s economic cycle. It is the invisible bridge that connects finance and the Armed Forces. Behind the valour of our soldiers lies your silent but decisive contribution,” underscored Raksha Mantri.
Strong Financial Discipline
Underlining the importance of finance as the lifeblood of governance, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that the strength of a nation is reflected in the strength of its financial foundation. He added that a steady flow of finances is essential for the smooth functioning of national governance and defence machinery.
Raksha Mantri praised the Department for ensuring that as of September 30, 2025, 50% of the capital budget expenditure had already been booked, a clear reflection of efficient utilisation. He also congratulated the Department for achieving 100% utilization in the previous financial year and expressed confidence that the same momentum would continue this year.
Technology-Enabled Reforms
Raksha Mantri lauded DAD for embracing modern technology under the Digital India initiative. He highlighted the success of the e-Raksha Awaas project, the upgradation of NIDHI 1.0 to NIDHI 2.0, and the ongoing transition to TULIP 2.0, which will enhance efficiency in financial processes. Shri Rajnath Singh appreciated the in-house development of the AI chatbot ‘Gyan Sathi’, designed to provide accurate information about rules and procedures. “These progressive reforms demonstrate the proactive spirit of DAD in embracing technology for efficiency and transparency. They also underline India’s determination to move towards a digitally empowered defence finance system,” he added.