The Economic Coordination Committee of Pakistan’s cabinet sanctioned a supplementary defence budget of PKR 50 billion (approx. USD 200 million) on 20 November 2025, aimed at bolstering security along international borders, upgrading naval infrastructure and safeguarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The move comes amid rising regional tension—especially with recent cross-border allegations and strategic recalibrations in South Asia. While supporters argue the allocation strengthens Pakistan’s deterrent capabilities and protects key assets, critics caution about the opportunity cost: social sectors, development funding and public services may face constraints. The decision also raises investor concerns: higher defence outlays often signal tension and may reduce fiscal space for growth-oriented investment. For Pakistan’s governance narrative, the budget highlights the persistent dominance of security imperatives in policy-making—posing the question of balancing defence readiness with economic resurgence and human-capital development.
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