Table of Contents

APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 02/02/2026

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (02-02-2026).

GS Mains Model Question

Paper: General Studies – III (Defence, Security, Economy, Indigenisation)

Q. The Union Budget 2026–27 marks a decisive push towards defence indigenisation while significantly enhancing capital expenditure on national security.

Critically examine the significance of this approach for India’s strategic autonomy and economic development. Also discuss its relevance for border States such as Assam.
(15 marks)

Model Answer

Introduction

The Union Budget 2026–27, as reported in The Assam Tribune, signals a strategic recalibration of India’s defence policy through a 15% increase in defence outlay and a strong emphasis on indigenous defence manufacturing. By prioritising capital expenditure and mandating a substantial share of domestic procurement, the Budget seeks to simultaneously address national security imperatives and economic self-reliance, marking a shift from import-dependent defence preparedness.

Body

A. Defence Indigenisation and Capital Expenditure: An Overview

The Budget underscores defence indigenisation by:

Allocating a record defence budget, the highest among Union ministries
Earmarking nearly 75% of defence capital acquisition for domestic industries
Increasing capital expenditure for aircraft, naval platforms, and advanced weapon systems

This approach aligns security needs with long-term industrial and technological capacity building.

B. Significance for Strategic Autonomy

1. Reduced Import Dependence

Indigenous procurement limits vulnerability to external supply shocks and sanctions.
Enhances operational continuity during geopolitical crises.

2. Strengthened Defence Preparedness

Capital investment modernises the armed forces with next-generation platforms.
Improves deterrence against conventional and non-conventional threats.

3. Technological Sovereignty

Promotes domestic R&D and innovation in critical defence technologies.
Encourages collaboration between DRDO, private industry, and academia.

C. Economic and Developmental Implications

1. Industrial Growth and Employment

Defence manufacturing generates high-skilled jobs and strengthens MSME participation.
Acts as a catalyst for ancillary industries and supply chains.

2. Technology Spillovers

Dual-use technologies benefit civilian sectors such as aerospace, electronics, and logistics.

3. Fiscal Prudence with Long-Term Returns

Capital-heavy spending creates durable assets rather than recurring liabilities.

D. Relevance for Assam and Border States

1. Strategic Infrastructure Development

Enhanced funding for border roads and logistics improves military mobility and civilian access.

2. Regional Security Integration

Assam’s location near international borders makes it central to eastern defence preparedness.

3. Economic Opportunities

Potential to develop logistics, maintenance, and support hubs linked to defence establishments.

Conclusion

The defence-focused provisions of the Union Budget 2026–27 reflect a conscious effort to integrate national security with economic self-reliance. By combining enhanced capital expenditure with indigenisation, the Budget strengthens India’s strategic autonomy while fostering industrial growth. For border States like Assam, this approach offers a dual dividend—greater security preparedness and region-specific development—provided implementation remains timely, inclusive, and institutionally robust.

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