India's defence budget more than doubled in 11 years to beef up armed forces

INDIA’S annual defence budget has increased 2.6 times from Rs 2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to Rs 6.81 lakh crore in 2025-26 which reflects India’s steadfast commitment to enhancing national security, modernising its armed forces and bolstering military infrastructure, according to a Ministry of Defence statement.

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“Strategic reforms, private sector participation and innovation have boosted indigenous manufacturing, making India self-reliant and a globally trusted defence exporter while strengthening national security and economic growth,” the statement added.

The collaboration between the government and private sector entities in India’s defence sector has driven advancements in arms and ammunition, aerospace, electronics, and naval technologies. This collaboration has been supported by policies such as ‘Make in India’ and liberalised FDI norms, which have enhanced domestic manufacturing capabilities, attracted international investments in defence innovation and driven notable growth in exports of military equipment, the report points out.