India’s Defence Research Budget Falls Short for Global Leadership Ambitions: Parliamentary Panel Urges Doubling Allocation

New Delhi: A recent report by a parliamentary panel highlights concerns about India’s defence research and development budget. The panel emphasizes that the current allocation in the Union budget isn’t enough for India to achieve global leadership in defence. To address this gap, the panel recommends doubling the budget over the coming years.

The report specifically focuses on the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and suggests increasing the research allocation from the current 5.38% to a range of 8-10% of the total budget. It notes that while the current funding supports self-reliance and national security, it’s insufficient for India’s aspirations to become a global leader in defence technology.

The panel also expresses worries about the declining percentage of funds allocated to research and development within DRDO, highlighting a decrease from 6.59% in 2010-11 to 5.38% in the present budget. Moreover, the allocation of a significant portion of the budget to the private sector, approximately Rs 1300 crore, raises concerns about DRDO’s capacity to effectively fulfil its objectives.

The panel urges the government to increase funding for DRDO’s projects, emphasizing the importance of research and development in establishing India as a major player in defence technology and weaponry, potentially becoming a significant exporter in this field.