In 2024, India’s military expenditure was 9 times that of Pakistan: SIPRI, Pg12

• India’s military spending in 2024 grew by 1.6% to $86.1 billion, almost nine times higher than Pakistan’s $10.2 billion.

  • India ranked fifth globally in military expenditure after the U.S., China, Russia, and Germany.

  • Data sourced from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) report on global military trends.

  • Pakistan ranked 35th among global military spenders.

Detailed Insights:

• Global Trends:

  • The top five spenders (U.S., China, Russia, Germany, India) accounted for 60% of global military expenditure.

    • U.S. remained the largest spender with $1,635 billion.

    • China’s military expenditure grew 7% to $314 billion, dominating Asia-Pacific defence spending.

  • Regional Dynamics:

    • Rising tensions between India and Pakistan, especially after incidents like the Pahalgam terror attack, frame military expenditures within strategic rivalries.

    • Europe saw a 17% rise in military spending, largely due to the ongoing Ukraine war.

    • Russia’s military spending rose 38% to $149 billion, representing 7.1% of its GDP.

  • Significance for India:

    • Reflects India's sustained focus on defence modernisation, border security, and counter-terror preparedness.

    • Reinforces India’s emergence as a key strategic player in global security frameworks, particularly in Asia.

Significance:

• Highlights India's growing defence capabilities amid regional security challenges.

  • Strengthens India’s position in global strategic and security dialogues.

  • Raises debates on defence versus developmental spending in policymaking.

  • Underlines the urgency of balancing military preparedness with diplomatic engagements, especially with nuclear-armed neighbours.

Mains Mock Question:

"India’s rising military expenditure reflects both regional security imperatives and aspirations for strategic autonomy. Critically analyse in the context of South Asian geopolitics."