Pakistan Increases Defense Budget
Pakistan increases defense budget by 18% increase in its defense budget. Intends to push military spending beyond Rs 2.5 trillion for the upcoming fiscal year. The decision comes amid escalating tensions with India, following the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent diplomatic fallout
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Pakistan Increases Defense Budget
Defense Budget Breakdown
The Pakistan coalition government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, finalized the budget increase after discussions with key political allies, including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The new allocation marks a significant jump from last year’s Rs 2.12 trillion, reflecting the country’s growing focus on military preparedness and national security.
According to reports, the defense sector remains Pakistan’s second-largest expenditure, following debt servicing, which accounts for Rs 9.7 trillion in the national budget.
Reasons Behind the Budget Increase
Pakistan’s decision to boost defense spending is largely driven by:
- Heightened Border Tensions – India and Pakistan have witnessed multiple ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) in recent weeks.
- Retaliatory Measures by India – Following the April 22 Pahalgam attack, India announced punitive actions, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and closure of the Attari land border.
- Missile Testing & Military Readiness – Pakistan recently conducted back-to-back missile tests. This included the test of Fatah series surface-to-surface missile with a 120-kilometer range.
The government has justified the budget hike as a necessary step to counter evolving security threats and maintain regional stability.
India-Pakistan Diplomatic Fallout
The budget rise coincides with the worst ties in years between India and Pakistan.
- India’s Response: New Delhi has downgraded diplomatic ties, suspended trade agreements, and restricted airspace access for Pakistani airlines.
- Pakistan’s Countermeasures: Islamabad retaliated by closing its airspace to Indian carriers and halting all trade via third countries.
Despite economic difficulties, experts say Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities is demonstrated by the increase in the defence budget.
Economic Impact & Public Reaction
While the government defends the defense budget increase, critics argue that Pakistan’s struggling economy cannot afford such high military expenditures.
- Inflation & Debt Crisis: With a national debt of Rs 17.5 trillion, Pakistan’s economic viability is called into question.
- Public Sentiment: Many citizens believe that funds should be allocated to healthcare, education, and infrastructure, rather than defense.
Despite these concerns, the government insists that national security remains a top priority.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s 18% defense budget increase highlights the country’s strategic priorities amid rising tensions with India. While the move strengthens military preparedness, it also raises economic concerns about sustainability. As the new fiscal year approaches, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s evolving defense strategy and its impact on regional stability