Why is it in the news?
Union Budget 2026–27 gives highest-ever defence allocation of ₹7.85 lakh crore.
Focus on defence modernisation, indigenous manufacturing and veterans’ welfare after Operation Sindoor.
Category: Defence
Important Points:
● Highest-ever defence allocation ₹7.85 lakh crore
● Capital allocation to Defence Forces above ₹2.19 lakh crore
● ₹1.39 lakh crore earmarked for domestic defence procurement
● About three-fourths of capital acquisition reserved for Indian manufacturers
● DRDO allocation increased by about 8.5%
● ECHS allocation ₹12,100 crore with 45.49% rise
● Defence pension allocation up 6.56% via SPARSH for 34+ lakh pensioners
● Defence spending ~2% of GDP vs 3% benchmark recommendation
● Salaries and pensions ~50% of defence expenditure
● IAF has 31 fighter squadrons vs authorised 42