In a significant move to bolster national security, the Union Budget 2026 has allocated a record sum of ₹1.74 lakh crore for police modernization, intelligence gathering, and enhanced border security. This allocation underscores the government's commitment to ensuring peace and stability within the country and safeguarding its borders amidst evolving geopolitical challenges.
The substantial financial commitment will be channeled towards various crucial areas. A significant portion of the funds will be directed towards equipping and modernizing central police forces, which play a vital role in maintaining internal security and combating various threats. These forces include the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the Border Security Force (BSF), and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The BSF is responsible for guarding India's borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, while the CISF protects vital installations such as nuclear plants, airports, and metro networks. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) is tasked with guarding the India-China border, and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) secures the borders with Nepal and Bhutan, while the Assam Rifles protect India's border with Myanmar.
Recognizing the importance of intelligence gathering in preempting threats, the budget also includes a dedicated allocation for strengthening intelligence agencies. The Intelligence Bureau (IB), India's internal intelligence agency, will receive funding to enhance its capabilities in collecting and analyzing information to counter terrorism, extremism, and other security challenges.
Furthermore, the Union Budget 2026 emphasizes the importance of robust border infrastructure to effectively manage and protect India's extensive borders. Funds will be allocated for the construction and upgradation of border roads, fences, and surveillance systems to prevent illegal infiltration and cross-border activities.
In addition to enhancing infrastructure and equipment, the budget also prioritizes the training and capacity building of police personnel. The Delhi Police, responsible for guarding the national capital, will receive a significant boost in funding, with a portion earmarked for training and education of its personnel. This will ensure that the police force is well-equipped to handle modern-day challenges such as cybercrime and terrorism.
The increased allocation for police, intelligence, and border security in the Union Budget 2026 reflects the government's comprehensive approach to national security. By investing in modern equipment, intelligence gathering, border infrastructure, and personnel training, the government aims to create a secure and stable environment for economic growth and development.
Notably, the Finance Minister allocated ₹12,503.65 crore to the Delhi Police, marking a marginal increase over the previous revised estimate. Out of this, ₹908.78 crore is dedicated to the training and education of police personnel, and ₹342.50 crore is allocated to strengthening infrastructure, including modern traffic management systems and advanced communication networks. The Union Budget 2026-27 also increased the Ministry of Home Affairs' allocation to ₹255233.53 crore, with a substantial portion for central police forces, Jammu and Kashmir, and various Union Territories.