India’s Rising Defense Budget Raises Security Concerns

India’s growing defense budget is raising concerns over regional imbalance in South Asia.

The country’s aggressive ambitions have historically posed security risks for the region. In recent years, India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” policy and aspirations for regional dominance have accelerated the procurement of weapons and defense equipment.

For the fiscal year 2026-27, the Indian government is reportedly considering a significant increase of 20 to 25 percent in defense spending. A comparison of defense budgets between Pakistan and India over the past few years reveals a striking disparity, with India steadily increasing its military expenditure.

For the fiscal year 2025-26, India allocated approximately $600 billion, significantly higher than Pakistan’s defense budget. Following setbacks in previous operations, India has justified the increase in spending through “Operation Sindoor-2,” using it as a basis to expand its defense budget and acquire new, advanced weaponry.

After the destruction of Rafale jets and the failure of the S-400 defense system, India is seeking to procure expensive new military equipment. In contrast, Pakistan’s defense budget accounts for only 1.97 percent of its Gross Domestic Product, while India’s budget of 6.81 trillion Indian rupees, equivalent to $78.70 billion, allocates 26 percent specifically for new acquisitions.

“This difference clearly indicates that India’s defense expenditure far exceeds Pakistan’s,” experts note. Rising defense spending and the acquisition of modern weaponry in India are heightening fears of militarization and instability in the region.

India has purchased military equipment from countries including the United States, Russia, France, Israel, and Spain. This arsenal includes helicopters, fighter jets, radars, rockets, firearms, assault rifles, missiles, and ammunition. India has emerged as the largest weapons buyer from France, Russia, and Israel.

Despite limited resources, Pakistan’s armed forces continue to ensure national defense by leveraging their professional capabilities to meet emerging challenges.