India Defence Ministry To Seek Higher Allocation In Upcoming Budget

India’s Defence Ministry is preparing to request a significant increase in its budgetary allocation in the forthcoming Union Budget. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh emphasized that higher funding is essential to accelerate modernization programs, support indigenous production, and reduce reliance on legacy imports. The ministry’s proposal aligns with the government’s broader vision of building technologically advanced and self-reliant armed forces under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.  

Key highlights from the announcement include  

• The Defence Ministry will seek a hike in allocations in the next Union Budget.  
• Funds are expected to be directed toward modernization, procurement of advanced systems, and infrastructure development.  
• India has already pivoted heavily to indigenous production, with over 80% of the defence budget spent domestically.  
• The push for higher allocations reflects the need to replace legacy systems and enhance operational readiness.  
• The government’s vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047 emphasizes building self-reliant and technologically advanced armed forces.  
• Recent budgets have already seen increases, with Rs 6.81 lakh crore allocated for FY 2025–26, marking a 9.53% rise from the previous year.  
• Capital outlay for modernization stood at Rs 1.8 lakh crore, highlighting the focus on infrastructure and procurement.  

This anticipated hike underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities while promoting domestic industry participation. The upcoming budget will be closely watched for allocations that could shape the trajectory of India’s military modernization in the coming decade.  

Sources: ANI News, Press Information Bureau, Times of India, Adda247