India's Defence Budget 2025: A Strategic Weakness?

India's recent defence budget allocation of ₹6.8 lakh crore raises concerns about its strategic implications. While the budget reflects a 9.5% increase, a significant portion—23.6%—is earmarked for pensions, limiting funds for modernization and military capabilities. Experts argue that this focus on personnel costs may weaken India's firepower amid regional tensions. With only 1.9% of GDP dedicated to defence, critics warn that India risks falling behind in global military readiness. The budget highlights a critical need for balance between personnel and operational effectiveness.

 

Source: Hindustan Times, Economic Times, Reuters