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In order to bolster the overall combat prowess of the armed forces along the northern and western borders, the defence ministry has approved the procurement of military equipment and weapons worth Rs 28,732 crore, including swarm drones and close-quarter battle carbines. It said 'the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals of the armed forces amounting to Rs 28,732 crore were accorded by the the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC).'

The approval to the new procurement proposals came amid India's lingering border row with China in eastern Ladakh. The ministry said the approval to procure four lakh close-quarter battle carbines was granted to combat the current complex paradigm of conventional and hybrid warfare and terrorism at the borders.

It also said the decision is set to provide a major impetus to the small arms manufacturing industry in the country and enhance 'Atmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in small arms. It stated considering the demand for enhanced protection against the threat of enemy snipers to our troops deployed along the Line of Control, and in close combat operations in counter-terrorism scenario, DAC accorded AoN for bulletproof jackets with Indian Standard BIS VI level of protection.