Census boost for Home Ministry in Budget 2026; intelligence bureau gets 74% hike

There has been a census boost in the internal security budget, with the Union government allocating ₹ 5,762 crore for the national survey starting from April 1. The overall budget for internal security has been increased by almost 9.5% to ₹ 2.55 lakh crore.

Most of the funds will go to central police forces such as CRPF, BSF, ITBP and CISF, which are responsible for border security, protection of vital facilities and law and order.

The Intelligence Bureau, which is responsible for internal security, terrorist threats and security risks, was the biggest gainer within the interior ministry, with an increase of over 74% proposed in the budget. The agency was allocated ₹3,893.35 crore last year, which has been increased significantly to ₹6,782.43 crore for the next financial year.