New Delhi: In a decisive move aimed at enhancing India’s military preparedness, the Central Government has granted emergency financial powers to the Indian Army to procure weapons and ammunition worth Rs 40,000 crore. The initiative comes in the backdrop of intensified anti-terror operations along the Pakistan border and is part of broader efforts to streamline defence readiness.
The new mandate allows the Army to directly purchase critical weaponry and ammunition during emergencies, bypassing conventional procurement delays. Defence ministry officials confirmed that these powers are expected to accelerate procurement timelines and bolster the armed forces’ operational capabilities.
In parallel, the government is considering a significant increase in the national defence budget. According to senior officials, an additional Rs 50,000 crore may be allocated in the upcoming Union Budget under the impact of Operation Sindoor. If approved, total defence spending for the financial year 2025–26 could exceed Rs 7 lakh crore.
The Modi administration is currently holding internal consultations to finalise the proposal, which is likely to be presented for approval during the Parliament’s winter session. The budget enhancement is expected to focus on the acquisition of modern weapons systems and ammunition, further strengthening India’s defence infrastructure.