News Desk
NEW DELHI — India’s defense budget has surged over the past decade, with the 2024-25 allocation reaching ₹6.22 lakh crore ($75 billion), a nearly 2.5-fold increase from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2014. The latest budget reflects an 8.6% rise in spending, excluding pensions, or 7.1% with pensions included.
The increase comes amid persistent tensions along India’s northern borders, with Pakistan’s hostility and China’s territorial assertiveness continuing to shape military priorities. Global conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and instability in the Middle East, have also reinforced the need for sustained defense investments.
Capital expenditure, a key component of the budget, saw a 15% jump this year, accounting for 34% of total defense spending. This allocation is crucial for the modernization of India’s armed forces, ensuring the acquisition of advanced technologies and equipment. Experts suggest further increases are needed to meet evolving geopolitical threats.
India is also ramping up defense research and development (R&D), with a ₹13,200 crore allocation expected to rise in the coming years. The push for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in defense manufacturing remains a government priority, with 75% of last year’s modernization budget—₹1.05 lakh crore—earmarked for domestic procurement.
With defense spending consistently on the rise, India aims to balance its security needs with economic self-sufficiency, strengthening both its military capabilities and indigenous defense industry.
