Despite substantial increases in the defense budget over recent years, including a record allocation of Rs 6.21 lakh crore in the Interim Union Budget 2024-25, India continues to face persistent terror attacks. The increased budget, which has nearly tripled from Rs 2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to Rs 6.22 lakh crore in 2024-25, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing national security and infrastructure. However, this financial commitment has not entirely mitigated the threat of terrorism.
In recent years, the Ministry of Defence's budget has been on an upward trajectory, rising from Rs 4.71 lakh crore in 2020 to a projected amount exceeding Rs 6 lakh crore in 2024. The capital expenditure for defense has also seen significant growth, increasing from Rs 86,741 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 1.72 lakh crore in 2024-25. This surge in funding aims to bolster the country's defense capabilities and infrastructure development.
Despite these efforts, the frequency and severity of terror attacks have not diminished. Notable incidents include the 2023 Poonch-Rajouri attack, which resulted in the deaths of five soldiers and one civilian, and the 2023 Dantewada bombing, where ten policemen and one driver lost their lives. These attacks highlight the persistent security challenges faced by India, despite the substantial financial resources allocated to counter-terrorism and defense.
Experts argue that while the increased budget is crucial for strengthening the nation’s defense infrastructure, it must be complemented by effective strategic and operational measures to combat terrorism. The recent budget hike, announced by the Finance Minister, includes an 11% increase in capital infrastructure spending, raising the outlay to ₹11.11 lakh crore. This investment, focused on Viksit Bharat, aims to further enhance the country’s infrastructure sector, which is essential for long-term national security.
In summary, while the significant budget allocations underscore the government's dedication to national defense, the persistent terror threats indicate a need for comprehensive and multifaceted approaches to effectively address and mitigate these challenges.
