Defence budget hiked to Rs. 3,05,296 crore
01 Feb 2019
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A hefty Rs3,05,296-crore budget for defence has been provided in the Budget Estimates for 2019-20, as compared to Rs. 2,82,733 crore provided in 2018-19 Budget Estimates. The figures were revised to Rs2,85,423 crore in the Revised Estimates of 2018-19.
“Our Defence Budget will be crossing Rs.3,00,000 crore for the first time in 2019-20,” said Piyush Goyal, the minister for finance. “For securing our borders and to maintain preparedness of the highest order, if necessary, additional funds would be provided.”
On the issue of strengthening Defence and National Security, the interim Budget says that our soldiers protect our borders in tough conditions and they are our pride and honour. Due care has been taken of their honour, said the minister.
The issue of One Rank One Pension (OROP), which was pending for the last 40 years has been resolved, he claimed. “The previous governments announced it in three budgets but sanctioned a mere Rs500 crore in 2004-05 Interim Budget; in contrast we have already disbursed over Rs35,000 crore after implementing the Scheme in its true spirit.”
The government also announced a substantial hike in the Military Service Pay (MSP) of all service personnel and special allowances given to Naval and Air Force personnel deployed in high risk duties.
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