MoD has uploaded Technology Perspective & Capability Roadmap (TPCR) on their website for the purpose of providing early warning of impending procurement to Industry. However TPCR gives very little information and is of little use to Industry. There is no other formalised system in vogue, except for ‘MAKE’ Cases, for early information which can be used by the Industry to prepare itself for impending Capital Procurement. It is hoped that MoD would replace TPCR with some other document that would give more meaningful and useful information in future.
As per DPP-2016, list of potential MAKE cases will be uploaded on MoD website. One such list was uploaded in 2016 which has since been further updated in February 2017. List also contains names and contact numbers of Nodal Officers for various projects. Generic QRs are also given in the list. A very useful document for Indian Companies desirous of participating in MAKE cases.
As far as other procurement cases are concerned, no such formal methodology exists. First indication for other than MAKE Capital Procurement is when RFI is uploaded on the net by the user directorate. With the issue of RFI, the process of procurement commences which involves preparation of SQR, identification of vendors for RFP and tentative decision on categorisation of the project. It may thus be assumed that RFP for the project is likely to come out sooner or later in 2-3 years time or may be in shorter time frame.
Thus, serious players would be advised to get information from open sources. A lot of information may be available on various defence portals and through participation in seminars/symposiums organised by Industry Chambers in collaboration with Service HQ and also carry out personal liaison with Service HQ.