In 2024, India’s military expenditure was nine times that of Pakistan: SIPRI.

 (Source – Page 4, The Hindu International Edition (April 29, 2025)

Key Findings of the SIPRI Report

• India’s Military Expenditure (2024):
  • $86.1 billion, 5th highest globally.
  • Growth of 1.6% compared to the previous year.
• Pakistan’s Military Expenditure:
  • $10.2 billion.
• Comparison: India’s defence spending is ~9 times that of Pakistan.
• Top Five Military Spenders:
  • United States, China, Russia, Germany, India — accounting for 60% of global defence spending.
• Global Context:
  • Rising geopolitical tensions have led to increased military spending, particularly in Europe and Asia.

Strategic and Security Implications for India

• Regional Deterrence:
  • India’s growing military capability is essential to deter cross-border terrorism, conventional threats from Pakistan, and assertiveness from China.
• Maritime Security:
  • Supports India’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region and enhances its role as a net security provider.
• Defence Modernization:
  • Expenditure is directed toward upgrading air defence, naval capabilities (aircraft carriers, submarines), and indigenization under initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Nuclear Security:
  • Maintains credible minimum deterrence against both China and Pakistan.

Global Military Trends Noted

• China: Military spending grew 7% to $314 billion; focus on cyberwarfare, naval expansion, and nuclear arsenal.
• Russia: Increased spending by 38%, driven by the Ukraine war.
• Ukraine: Military burden highest globally, spending 34% of GDP on defence.

Challenges Ahead

• Fiscal Stress:
  • High defence spending needs to be balanced with social and developmental needs.
• Technological Dependence:
  • Despite increased spending, India’s dependency on imports for critical technology remains a concern.
• Regional Instability:
  • Arms race dynamics with Pakistan and China could lead to instability if not carefully managed.

Conclusion / Way Forward

India’s rise as one of the world’s top defence spenders reflects its strategic aspirations and security needs in an evolving regional and global order. However, sustained focus on indigenous defence production, efficient use of resources, and diplomatic engagement must complement military strength to ensure comprehensive national security.