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The Modi government spends a lot of money to strengthen its military.

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The Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has significantly ramped up defense spending, focusing on modernizing the armed forces through massive capital investments. With rising security challenges from China and Pakistan, India is prioritizing self-reliance in defense manufacturing while acquiring cutting-edge military technology. The latest budget allocations and policy initiatives reflect a strategic push to strengthen India’s military capabilities, reduce dependence on foreign arms imports, and position the country as a global defense manufacturing hub.  

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Record Defense Budget and Capital Expenditure Surge**  

In the 2024-25 Union Budget, India allocated **₹6.21 lakh crore (approx. $75 billion)** for defense, marking a steady increase in military spending. A key highlight is the sharp rise in **capital outlay**—funds dedicated to buying new weapons, aircraft, ships, and technology—which has reached **₹1.72 lakh crore (about $21 billion)**. This is part of a long-term trend, with defense capital expenditure growing by over **12-15% annually** in recent years.  

The focus is on:  
- **Modernizing the Army** (new tanks, artillery, drones)  
- **Expanding the Navy** (aircraft carriers, submarines, warships)  
- **Strengthening the Air Force** (Rafale, Tejas MK-1A, S-400 missile systems)  
- **Investing in futuristic warfare** (cyber, space, AI-driven systems)  

This spending spree comes amid heightened tensions with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and persistent threats from Pakistan-backed terrorism.  

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Push for Self-Reliance: Atmanirbharta in Defense**  

A major pillar of Modi’s defense strategy is reducing reliance on foreign arms suppliers. The government has:  
- **Banned over 400 defense imports**, pushing for indigenous alternatives.  
- **Allocated 75% of defense capital procurement budget for domestic industry** in 2023-24.  
- **Boosted private sector participation** through partnerships with firms like Tata, L&T, and Mahindra.  

Key achievements under the **"Make in India"** initiative include:  
**TEJAS MK-1A Fighter Jets** – Over 180 ordered from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).  
 **Prachand Light Combat Helicopters** – Indigenously developed for high-altitude warfare.  
 **INS Vikrant** – India’s first domestically built aircraft carrier.  
**Akash-NG Missile Systems** – Next-gen air defense for the armed forces.  

The goal is to increase defense exports to **$5 billion by 2025**, with India already supplying BrahMos missiles, radars, and drones to friendly nations like the Philippines and Armenia.  

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Strategic Partnerships and Global Defense Deals**  

While self-reliance is a priority, India is also securing critical defense tech through global collaborations:  
- **Russia** – S-400 air defense systems, AK-203 rifles joint production.  
- **France** – Rafale jets, Scorpène submarines.  
- **US** – GE’s fighter jet engine deal for TEJAS MK-2.  
- **Israel** – Heron drones, missile defense systems.  

These partnerships ensure access to advanced technology while domestic manufacturing scales up.  

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Challenges Ahead**  

Despite progress, hurdles remain:  
 **Slow procurement processes** – Delays in big-ticket deals.  
 **Dependence on foreign components** – Even "Made in India" systems rely on imported parts.  
 **Budget constraints** – Rising pension costs consume a large share of defense funds.  

However, the government is addressing these through policy reforms, faster approvals, and incentives for R&D.  

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Conclusion: A Stronger, Self-Sufficient Military**  

The Modi government’s aggressive capital spending on defense signals a clear shift toward a more robust and self-reliant military. With a focus on indigenous production, modernization, and strategic global partnerships, India aims to counter security threats while emerging as a major defense exporter. As geopolitical tensions rise, this military expansion could redefine India’s position as a key player in global defense—ensuring both security and economic growth in the long run.  

The coming years will be crucial in determining whether India can truly become a defense powerhouse, but the current trajectory suggests a stronger, more self-sufficient military is on the horizon.

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