"UPA government neglected the armed forces for the last 10 years. Due to inflation, the defence budget was cut down and there was dearth of resources," he said while responding to a question during a press conference held at state BJP office.
"Necessary items were not purchased and jawans did not get shoes. Even waterproof jackets were not bought," the former Uttrakhand Chief Minister said.
He, however, said the present BJP-led Central government is taking measures to strengthen the forces.