With the assent of the national budget in India, several pros and cons of it are being discussed by the media about the correctness of fund allocated in a particular field. But the government got worried just after a few days of passing of the budget when China announced its plan to increase its military budget by 7-8 percent. Now let’s take a look over the current scenario that became the eye catcher.
The Chinese government has declared hike in its defence budget as revealed by a domestic media source. The sources also mentioned the expectations of hike of defence budget by 7-8 percent. While military analysts in China are indicating hike totalling to be about $ 145 billion. Last year, the hike was about 10.1 percent. Their defence budget is nearly three times more than that of Indian defence budget. A few days ago, national budget was passed stating an increase of 9.76% in defence, making the count to 2.58 lakh crore. This includes the most waited One Rank One Pension. Analysing the total budget of India, defence budget accounts for about 17% of the total expenditure.
Reason behind Hike in Defence Budget
The all over growth of China is a bit low and Yuan devaluation has made the nation porous. But still the decision of government to increase the defence budget is a step toward boosting military strength to cover and enhance military presence in South China Sea. The recent announcement of US navy to set up a “Freedom of Navigation Mission” in the international area of South China Sea. But China is aiming to deter US forces alarming further spoilage of relations. Sources claimed that China has deployed a radar system and 8missile launches at Woody Island which is administered by China. China’s cold conflict with japan is also expected to lead to the deployment of weapons by China in the disputed area in East China Sea between China and japan. Amid tensions and previous attempts by North Korea (hydrogen bomb news and ballistic missile test), US may deploy its THAAD anti-missile system in the area.
Why should India worry?
Being a close neighbour of China and also a competitor in economy and defence, India must think parallel over its military preparedness. Their military is larger in count and their defence budget is 3 times as that of India’s defence budget. China’s involvement in string of pearls, India – China’s issue of Karakorum highway and border crossing in Daulat Beg Oldi, etc. shows mismatch of thoughts. While it’s keen involvement with Pakistan in providing weapons has left India alone between his two rivals.
Conclusion – Defence expenditure has become the biggest need of national budget these days for big nations. Defence and security are an essential part of a developing economy. India is surrounded by small friends and big enemies. This fact specifies the need of militarisation. To make a counter effect of China’s defence preparedness, India needs to hike its military expenditure and focus on boosting the security services.
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