Speaking to reporters today, he said specific charges against the previous NDA government's defence deals would be looked at. He would ensure instituti-onalisation of transparency for both emergency and regular purchases for the military.

Mukherjee said modernisation or purchase of new weapons and better training were priorities. Funds for strategic purchases would not be allowed to lapse.

"Whatever is required for security of the nation would be made available," he said.

Asked whether his getting the defence portfolio came as a surprise, he said he was not surprised as it was the prerogative of the Prime Minister to allocate portfolios.