Question: Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to satate :-

(a) whether irregularities have been reported in 100 black shark torpedo deal finalized in 2012 for Indian Navy;

(b) if so, the details thereof ;

(c) the details of the companies which have been awarded tender for the deal;

(d) whether Government has received representation against the irregularities in this deal;

(e) if so, the details thereof;

(f) the details of action taken thereon;

(g) whether Government has inquired into the alleged irregularities;

(h) if so, the details thereof; and

(i) if not, the reasons therefor?

Answer: Minister of Defence (Shri A.K. Antony)

(a) & (b): The contract for procurement of Black Shark torpedoes has not yet been finalised.

(c) Not applicable in view of above.

(d) to (f): Representations / references have been received from different quarters including from one competing vendor and some Members of Parliament. Special Technical Oversight Committee was constituted with approval of DAC (Defence Acquisition Council) to review the evaluation process and the complaints received. The STOC has opined that the procurement has been progressed in accordance with the laid down procedures, in keeping with the provisions of the RFP (Request for Proposal) and DPP-2006 in transparent and fair manner. The DAC has considered the STOC Report and accepted the same in September, 2012. Government has not taken a final decision on this procurement.

(g) & (h): In addition to STOC mentioned above, the case has been examined by CVC. The matter was also referred to CBI for ascertaining the vigilance status of the concerned entity.

(i) Not Applicable.

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