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Budget ‘zero’ for Chabahar Port: Threat of China’s entry or diplomatic move? Expert Brahma Chellani warned

Samira Vishwas | February 2, 2026 7:24 PM CST

Chabahar Port Budget 2026 Allocation News In Hindi: The Government of India has not made any new budget provision for its important strategic project, Chabahar Port, in the General Budget 2026. This is the first time in many years that there has been a ‘zero’ price for this project. Allocation has been done. The decision has sparked debate in defense and foreign affairs circles as Chabahar is part of India’s ‘connectivity strategy’. Is considered a main pillar of.

Can China get entry?

Noted strategic affairs expert Brahma Chellaney strongly objected to the move, saying ending funding for Chabahar is a ‘dangerous’ A decision may be taken. They argue that if India loosens its grip or retreats from this important port, then China is ready to fill this void.

China is already investing heavily in Pakistan’s Gwadar Port which is part of CPEC. If India pulls out of Chabahar, Iran may turn to a stronger partner like China which will be a major strategic defeat for India.

pressure of American sanctions

This decision of India has come at a time when America’s Trump administration has increased pressure on India. According to sources, America has warned India to withdraw from this project by April 26, 2026, otherwise it has been asked to be prepared to face sanctions. It is noteworthy that the Trump administration had also withdrawn the Chabahar- embargo exemption given to India in September last year without any apparent reason.

Is the $120 million transfer the real reason?

However, there may also be a technical aspect to the zero allocation in the Budget. According to reports, India has already transferred funds worth $120 million for the development of Chabahar’s Shahid Beheshti Terminal.

Experts believe that since this amount is already available, there may be no need for a new budget this year. Despite this, Chellaney believes that removing the name completely from the budget sends the wrong signal diplomatically especially when it is the axis of the North South Transport Corridor (NSTC) and the only way to bypass Pakistan.