India’s jingoism peaks as Modi regime hikes defence budget to record level
New Delhi: Reflecting India’s growing jingoism and militaristic posture, the Modi-led government has announced a record allocation of Rs 7.85 lakh crore for defence in the Union Budget 2026–27, marking a steep increase of around 15 percent over the previous fiscal year.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the massive hike underscores New Delhi’s priority for military expansion over social welfare, even as poverty, unemployment, and unrest continue to plague large sections of the population, particularly in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for what he termed a “historic” budget, claiming it strengthens the government’s resolve to create a “robust and foolproof security system.” He said the allocation follows the so-called success of Operation Sindoor and reinforces the regime’s security-centric approach.
Out of the total defence outlay, over Rs 2.19 lakh crore has been allocated under the capital head, with Rs 1.85 lakh crore earmarked specifically for capital acquisition—about 24 percent higher than the previous year. Singh said the enhanced capital acquisition budget would further boost India’s military capabilities and accelerate the modernization of the armed forces.
Observers, however, say the ballooning defence budget reflects the BJP government’s obsession with militarism and power projection, particularly against neighbouring countries and the people of occupied Kashmir, where heavy militarisation has already turned the region into one of the most militarised zones in the world.
They warn that instead of addressing political disputes through dialogue and respecting international obligations, New Delhi is increasingly relying on military might, a trajectory that threatens regional peace and further marginalizes oppressed communities, especially the Kashmiris.
