The Department of Strategic and Regional Studies (DSRS), University of Jammu, successfully organized a talk on “Union Budget 2025-26 with Special Reference to Defence Budget 2025-26” at the Seminar Hall today. The event featured an insightful address by Mr. Varun Jhaveri, a distinguished expert in economic and strategic affairs, who has vast experience of working at Asian Development Bank, United Nations, NITI Aayog and Government of Karnataka. Mr. Arun Prabhat, Former President, Jammu University Student Union and a prominent youth leader of J&K, welcomed the Chief Guest and other dignitaries. In his welcome address, Mr. Prabhat highlighted the role of youth in securing the vital interests of the country.

Mr. Jhaveri in his keynote address, provided a comprehensive analysis of the defence allocations in the Union Budget 2025-26, highlighting key trends, policy implications, and their impact on India's security framework. He elaborated on modernization efforts, procurement strategies, and resource allocation for the armed forces, emphasizing the government's commitment to strengthening national defence. Mr. Jhaveri summarised defence budget as a positive step where three key issues of investment in infrastructure, protection of domestic manufacturers and more funds for research and development are addressed.

In his Presidential Remarks, Dr. Mohd. Monir Alam, Sr. Assistant Professor, Department of Strategic and Regional Studies, University of Jammu, addressed the key topics including indigenous defence production, self-reliance under ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ and the role of emerging technologies in military preparedness. He also expressed gratitude to Mr. Jhaveri and the attendees for their enthusiastic participation. He emphasized the need for continued discourse on defence economics and strategic policies to align with India's long-term security goals.

The event saw active participation from faculty, research scholars and students, who engaged in a thought-provoking discussion on the strategic importance of budgetary allocations in the current geopolitical landscape. The event concluded with a Q&A session, where participants exchanged views on budgetary priorities, defence research funding, and global defence spending trends. This talk reaffirmed the significance of informed discussions on national security and fiscal policies in shaping India's future defence landscape.

The proceedings of the program were conducted by Dr. Ganesh Malhotra. The vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Chahukeshi Jamwal. This program was attended by Prof. Virender Koundal, Director DSRS, Dr. Surinder Mohan, Dr. Ranjan Sharma, faculty from other departments of the university, Research Scholars and Postgraduate students.