Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Press Conference on Rafale Deal Part-III
1,138 views · Published 17 November 2017 · 5:23 · Indexed 21 September 2026
Channel: NationalDefence · 2017 · News & Politics
Copyright: National Defence RM Nirmala Sitharaman's Press Conference on Rafale Deal Countering Congress Allegation of Irregularities Shailesh Kumar, National Defence, New Delhi, 17 November 2017 Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman slammed the congress for labelling “irresponsible” allegation of irregularities in Rafale Fighter Aircraft acquisition. In a counter allegation she said it was indecisiveness approach adopted by Congress regime for 10 years leaving the gap in war preparedness of Indian Air Force (IAF). She said even during UPA regime in 2012 ‘Rafale’ became L-1 (lowest bidder). Denying allegations of sudden cost escalation Nirmala Sitharaman clarified that during the current Government prices were negotiated considering add-ons (additional weapon systems etc) to make the machine effective. The aircraft was bought cheaper than the price contemplated during UPA regime. “The decision to buy 36 Rafales was taken to address the urgent need of the Air Force because the UPA government did not pay any attention to defence preparedness of the armed forces...it (the UPA) was indecisive for 10 years to address this critical necessity of fighters for the IAF”, RM Nirmla Sitharaman said. Ïn 2014, we came to power. Prime Minister was apprised of the situation. PM did consult the defence minister (Parrikar). In 2015, PM spoke to the France Government. After coming back, followed the due process of CCS (Cabinet Committee On Security). In September 2016, almost a year and a half later in the presence of Defence Minister of France & India, agreement was signed by DGA and Deputy Chief of Air Staff in Delhi”, RM Sitharaman clarified. She also defended the allegations of not negotiating the transfer of technology with France, RM Sitharaman said, “it is simple economics. When you talk of 126 aircraft, it makes sense... “when you go for 36 it makes no sense for ToT in an urgent procurement with Add-ons.” Read full story at: https://nationaldefence.in/breaking-news/defence-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-slams-congress-defends-the-rafale-deal/ Subscribe: www.youtube.com/nationaldefence?sub_confirmation=1 Copyright: National Defence
