SOURCE: AFI
In a move to strengthen India’s defense readiness along the China border, the government has significantly increased the special financial powers of Army commanders responsible for these crucial regions. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved new annual budgets, enabling commanders to swiftly procure essential equipment and resources for their troops.
This financial boost reflects India’s ongoing efforts to enhance preparedness in response to heightened activities along its northern and northeastern borders, especially in light of the continuing tensions with China.
The increased budget allocations align with the Indian Army’s strategic priorities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. The Northern Command, responsible for overseeing operations in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, has been granted the largest share of ?500 crore. This reflects the ongoing security concerns in Ladakh, where Indian and Chinese forces remain in a standoff in several areas.
Similarly, the Eastern Command, which manages operations in the sensitive regions of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, has been allocated ?400 crore, highlighting the critical importance of these areas in countering potential threats from across the border. The Central Command, responsible for the relatively less tense but still strategically significant border areas, has received ?200 crore.
The special financial powers will expedite the procurement of advanced equipment and infrastructure upgrades that are urgently needed for the forces deployed in these remote and often harsh regions. The increased budget will likely go toward purchasing surveillance equipment, upgrading communication systems, improving mobility in high-altitude areas, and enhancing the living conditions of troops stationed at extreme altitudes and weather conditions.
The decision comes at a crucial time when the Indian Army has been ramping up its capabilities along the LAC to match China’s growing military presence. With tensions persisting since the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, India has been steadily improving its border defenses, including the construction of new roads, airstrips, and forward military bases. The additional financial powers granted to commanders will further streamline this process, ensuring that critical gaps in equipment and infrastructure are addressed swiftly.