New Delhi, May 30: The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, invoked a popular dialogue from Bollywood superstar Salman Khan to express frustration over persistent delays in defence equipment deliveries, highlighting ongoing challenges in India’s military procurement processes.
During a recent interaction with the media, the Air Chief referenced Salman Khan’s iconic line, “Kabhi kabhi lagta hai apun hi bhagwan hai,” to emphasize the need for greater accountability and efficiency in defence production and supply chains. The statement comes amid mounting concerns over delays affecting the timely induction of critical platforms such as fighter jets and helicopters into the Indian Air Force.
Sources within the Defence Ministry acknowledge that procurement delays stem from multiple issues, including supplier constraints, complex regulatory procedures, and import dependencies. These challenges have impacted India’s defence modernization efforts and operational readiness, especially in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment.
The government has been promoting initiatives such as Make in India to boost indigenous defence manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign imports. Recent inductions like the Rafale fighter jets and indigenous Tejas aircraft reflect progress, though delivery timelines continue to be a concern.
Industry experts note that while reforms are underway, greater transparency and streamlined processes are necessary to overcome bottlenecks in defence supply chains. The Air Chief’s candid remark, borrowing from popular culture, serves as a pointed reminder of the urgency for systemic improvements.
As India strives to strengthen its strategic defence capabilities, addressing delivery delays remains a top priority to ensure the armed forces maintain operational effectiveness and readiness.
