India Aims for 2.5% GDP Defence Spending by 2031: Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh

• Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh announced India's aspiration to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP over the next five years, targeting 2031.
• The Union Budget 2026 allocated ₹7.85 lakh crore for defence, a 15.2% rise, with capital expenditure increasing by 20.1% to ₹2.31 lakh crore.
• Increased capital outlay will fund existing contracts like Rafale Marine aircraft and Predator drones, and new acquisitions including drones, counter-drone systems, and fighter aircraft.
• India is progressing with co-development of a jet engine with an international partner and strengthening its Navy's submarine fleet and Air Force's fighter capabilities.
• The indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program sees strong private sector interest, with prototypes expected in 3-4 years and full production in a decade.

Why It Matters: India plans to significantly boost defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2031, focusing on modernization and self-reliance.