Bolstering Mechanized Infantry: Indigenous Procurement of Auxiliary Power Units for Main Battle Tanks

The decision to route this procurement through the 'Make-II' category underscores the government's commitment to 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in the defense sector. The 'Make-II' procedure is specifically designed to encourage indigenous participation, allowing for prototype development by private industry with minimal government funding, thereby fostering innovation and reducing dependence on foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). This shift not only strengthens the domestic defense industrial base but also ensures that the Indian Army has a reliable, indigenous supply chain for critical maintenance and upgrades. For the Indian Army, this integration is a force multiplier. As the T-72 and T-90 platforms continue to form the backbone of India's mechanized forces, ensuring their technological relevance through such upgrades is essential for maintaining a qualitative edge in diverse terrains, ranging from the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh to the plains of the western border. UPSC Relevance: This development is highly relevant for GS Paper III under the themes of 'Indigenization of Technology' and 'Various Security Forces and their Mandate.' Aspirants can cite this as a practical example of how the 'Make-II' procurement policy is being leveraged to modernize legacy platforms, reduce import dependency, and promote private sector participation in the defense ecosystem.