Chidambaram fair to defence sector: Antony

Defence Minister A.K. Antony said on Thursday that Finance Minister P.Chidambaram had done a good job in the union budget. He said that considering the overall economic situation, the finance minister had been fair to the defence sector in allocating Rs.203,672 crore (over Rs.2 trillion) in 2013-14.

"Taking into account the difficult economic situation both at home and abroad, the finance minister has done a good job. The measures that he has outlined for the rejuvenation of the economy while ensuring inclusive growth are indeed commendable," Antony said.
The minister said Chidambaram had said in his budget speech that a positive view will be taken if the need arises for more funds for defence.

"Factoring the current economic scenario, he has been fair to the defence sector also by increasing the budget and assuring that should there be any urgent need in future, the same would be provided," Antony added.

Chidambaram had announced that defence spending would be Rs.203,672 crore (over Rs.2 trillion) in 2013-14, marking a increase of over five percent over the outlay of 2012-13, when it was Rs.193,407 crore.