Border tensions with China and Pakistan have been a significant driver of India’s defence budget allocations. The historical and ongoing disputes with these neighbours necessitate robust defence preparedness, with specific budgetary allocations aimed at enhancing border security and military capabilities. This article examines how these tensions influence India’s defence budget, highlighting key allocations and their implications for national security.
Historical Context of Border Tensions
India shares long and contentious borders with both China and Pakistan. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China spans approximately 3,488 kilometers, while the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan extends around 740 kilometers. These borders have been the sites of numerous conflicts and skirmishes, including the Sino-Indian War of 1962 and the Kargil War of 1999. The recent clashes in the Galwan Valley in 2020 further underscore the volatility of these borders and the need for heightened security measures.
Defence Budget Overview
India’s defence budget has seen consistent growth over the years, driven by the necessity to counter threats from both China and Pakistan. In the fiscal year 2023-24, the defence budget was increased to ₹5.94 lakh crore ($72.6 billion), marking a significant rise from previous years. This increase is reflective of the ongoing efforts to modernize the armed forces and enhance border security.
Allocations for Border Security
A substantial portion of the defence budget is allocated to improving infrastructure and capabilities along the borders with China and Pakistan.
Infrastructure Development: To ensure rapid troop mobilization and sustained supply chains, significant investments are being made in constructing roads, bridges, and tunnels in border areas. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has been instrumental in these efforts, with several projects aimed at improving connectivity in the Himalayan region.
Surveillance and Reconnaissance: Enhancing surveillance capabilities is crucial for monitoring border activities. The defence budget allocates funds for acquiring advanced drones, satellite imagery, and electronic surveillance systems. These technologies are vital for real-time monitoring and intelligence gathering, which are essential for pre-empting and responding to incursions.
Military Modernization: Modernizing the armed forces is a key priority, with a focus on acquiring advanced weaponry and equipment. Budgetary allocations are directed towards procuring new fighter jets, tanks, artillery, and missile systems. The induction of the Rafale fighter jets and the development of the indigenous Tejas aircraft are part of these modernization efforts.
Specialized Forces and Training: The budget also emphasizes the need for specialized forces capable of operating in the challenging terrains of the Himalayas. Allocations are made for training programs and the establishment of mountain warfare schools. These specialized units are trained to handle high-altitude combat and adverse weather conditions.
Strategic Preparedness and Diplomacy
India’s defence budget not only focuses on immediate military needs but also on long-term strategic preparedness. The aim is to maintain a credible deterrence posture while ensuring that the armed forces are well-equipped to handle any potential escalation.
Impact of Galwan Valley Clash
The Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers, marked a significant turning point in India’s defence strategy. In response to this incident, the government increased the defence budget allocation, prioritizing the procurement of critical equipment and the enhancement of border infrastructure. The incident highlighted the importance of being prepared for sudden escalations and the need for a robust defence mechanism.
Allocations Towards Indo-Pak Border Security
While the focus on the Indo-China border has intensified, the threat from Pakistan remains a significant concern. The defence budget addresses the need for vigilance and readiness along the LoC.
These include:
Counter-Infiltration Measures: Investments in advanced surveillance and anti-infiltration systems are crucial for preventing cross-border terrorism. The defence budget includes funds for deploying sophisticated radars, night-vision devices, and thermal imaging systems along the LoC.
Strengthening Border Outposts: Enhancing the security of border outposts (BOPs) is essential for maintaining a strong defence posture. The budget allocates funds for upgrading existing BOPs and establishing new ones, ensuring that they are well-equipped and strategically located.
Indigenous Defence Production: Promoting indigenous defence production is a key aspect of the budget. The aim is to reduce dependency on foreign imports and develop self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ and the establishment of defence corridors are part of this strategy.
