Why allocation for defence is not enough

The Tribune

Key Arguments and Analysis

Inadequate defence budget relative to national security needs
The article stresses that the defence allocation for FY27 is insufficient to address India's growing security needs. With rising geopolitical tensions, especially along the China and Pakistan borders, the author argues that the current defence budget does not reflect the expanding defence requirements.

Strategic priorities and the need for modernisation
The National Defence Strategy (NDS), released in January 2023, outlines homeland defence and Western Hemisphere security as priorities but the author critiques the limited allocation for defence capabilities. The need for modernisation, especially in areas like AI in combat and collaborative drone systems, is identified as a critical area where funding is lacking.

Rising inflation and purchasing power concerns
The article highlights the inflation in defence sector costs, which has pushed up the price of essential defence goods and services. Despite the increase in the defence budget, the rising costs mean that the purchasing power of the defence forces has been compromised. This further strains procurement of key military assets like naval Rafales and aircraft.

Recommendations for defence spending
A benchmark of allocating at least 3% of GDP for defence is presented as a strategic need to transform India from a regional power into a technologically sovereign and strategically capable nation. The article criticizes the current trajectory of defence spending, noting that other countries are significantly outspending India in this regard.

Author’s Stance

The author is highly critical of the government’s defence budget allocation, asserting that India’s security needs are underfunded. The article reflects a strong pro-defence stance, advocating for increased defence spending, particularly in modernising India’s military capabilities and maintaining military readiness in the face of rising external threats.

Biases and Perspective

Pro-defence and security-focused bias
The article shows a clear bias towards prioritising defence over other government spending. It emphasises the importance of defence for national sovereignty and technological sovereignty, advocating for more resources in this area.

National security and technological sovereignty lens
The author underscores that security concerns should override economic constraints, reflecting a belief in defence preparedness as essential to India's global standing. There is less discussion on the trade-offs involved in allocating more funds to defence versus other critical sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Raising awareness about defence inadequacies: The article brings attention to the shortcomings of India's defence budget, which could lead to public and political debate about the need for greater allocation to defence.
• Emphasis on strategic technological upgrades: It correctly identifies areas such as AI, drones, and cyber warfare that require urgent funding to keep India competitive in modern warfare.
• Realistic budget recommendations: By suggesting a 3% of GDP allocation, the article provides a benchmark for a balanced, well-funded military modernization strategy.

Cons

• Narrow perspective on budget priorities: The article places heavy emphasis on defence at the expense of other developmental needs. It overlooks the complexities of balancing fiscal priorities in a country with a large population and socio-economic disparities.
• Limited focus on fiscal constraints: The argument does not deeply explore India’s fiscal realities and the pressures on the government to balance defence with other sectors, especially during global financial uncertainties.
• Risk of prioritizing military over diplomacy: The tone suggests that military power should take precedence over diplomatic strategies or soft power approaches that can also ensure national security and influence in the region.

Policy Implications

Budgeting for defence
The article calls for a strategic shift in how defence is budgeted in India. Allocating 3% of GDP for defence would require careful consideration of existing financial constraints, but it could significantly strengthen India’s military capabilities and global position.

Emphasis on technological advancement
Investment in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and autonomous weaponry should be prioritised. These are crucial for India’s long-term strategic defence, given global advancements in these fields.

Long-term defence planning
The government should move towards a comprehensive, forward-looking defence plan that integrates technological innovations, strategic alliances, and enhanced procurement processes to ensure the military can meet future challenges effectively.

Real-World Impact

• Defence forces: If the budget continues to fall short, the military's capacity to modernise will be hampered, reducing its effectiveness in responding to emerging security challenges.
• National security: Inadequate funding may leave India vulnerable to escalating threats from neighbouring countries, especially in the context of rising tensions in South Asia with both China and Pakistan.
• Economic impact: While increased defence spending would place pressure on the government’s fiscal position, it could stimulate the defence industry and contribute to the growth of high-tech industries, which can have a multiplier effect on India’s broader economy.

UPSC GS Paper Alignment

GS Paper II (Governance, Constitution, Polity)

• Defence strategy and national security policies
• Budget allocation and its political implications
• Governance issues in the defence sector

GS Paper III (Economic Development)

• Defence procurement, allocation, and economic impact
• Role of the government in promoting technological advancement
• Security-related policies and their impact on development

Essay Paper

• “The importance of national security in a globalised world”
• “Balancing defence and development for sustainable growth”

Balanced Conclusion and Future Perspectives

The article rightly highlights the insufficient allocation for India’s defence sector, pointing to the strategic, technological, and geopolitical disadvantages posed by underinvestment in defence. India’s rising security challenges, particularly from neighbours like China and Pakistan, require a well-equipped and modern military force.

However, while the author calls for higher defence spending, there must be a broader, balanced approach to India’s fiscal strategy, one that also addresses social sectors, economic development, and diplomatic efforts. Ensuring technological sovereignty and global competitiveness is vital, but these goals should be pursued without neglecting India’s other crucial development needs.

As India looks to position itself as a global leader, its defence infrastructure must be strengthened, but so too must its efforts in diplomacy, innovation, and socio-economic development. The future of India’s security strategy will depend on a holistic, integrated approach that balances military readiness with broader national resilience.