Defence Spending is Nation’s Insurance, Says Ex-Army Chief Naravane

Former Chief of Army Staff General (Retd.) Manoj Naravane likened defence expenditure to an “insurance premium” essential for national security during the launch of his book Cantonment Conspiracies in Pune on Monday. He dismissed critics who label military spending as wasteful, emphasizing that it prevents wars and fosters a peaceful environment critical for India’s development.

Speaking at the event, Naravane invoked the ancient Roman adage, “If you want peace, prepare for war,” underscoring that peace is a prerequisite for progress. “Only in a peaceful environment will factories function, children receive quality education, and investments flow,” he said. He argued that India, interconnected globally, cannot afford to be insular and must invest in robust defence to deter threats.

Addressing criticism that defence budgets divert funds from social sectors, Naravane countered, “Expenditure on defence is not a waste. It’s an insurance premium to prevent war, just as we pay for coverage against unforeseen events.” He highlighted that stronger threats demand higher spending, as appearing weak invites aggression. Citing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, he noted Ukraine’s underfunded military left it vulnerable, with reconstruction costs post-2022 invasion estimated at $400 billion by the World Bank. “Had Ukraine invested a fraction of that in defence earlier, it might have avoided such devastation,” he added.

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Naravane stressed that defence spending circulates within the economy, boosting growth through job creation and industrial activity. The Union Budget for 2025-26 allocates ₹6,81,210.27 crore to the Ministry of Defence, a 9.53% increase from the previous year and 13.45% of the total budget, the highest among ministries. This includes funding for modernization, indigenous production under Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and border infrastructure.

He rejected the notion of outsourcing national security, stating, “It’s the country’s primary responsibility to secure itself.” His remarks come amid debates over balancing defence and social spending, with posts on X reflecting mixed sentiments—some praising the focus on security, others questioning the trade-off with education and healthcare.

Naravane’s book, blending military insights and fiction, also touches on strategic challenges, reinforcing his call for preparedness in an era of heightened geopolitical tensions.

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