India's 2026 budget announcement has marked a significant increase in both defense and infrastructure spending, reflecting the country's strategic priorities amid regional tensions and global economic challenges. As reported by Tribune Latest and Dawn, the defense budget has been raised to a record $85 billion, a 15% increase from the previous year, while infrastructure spending is set at $133 billion, up by 9%. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the focus on 'high-speed rail, submarines, and fighter jets,' alongside investments in data centers, artificial intelligence, and rare earth processing. This budgetary expansion follows a brief conflict with Pakistan in May 2025, which resulted in 70 casualties and highlighted the need for enhanced military capabilities. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated the spending is in the 'best interest' of national security, aiming to equip the armed forces with advanced technology such as drones and submarines.