17.6 percent hike in defence budget in new budget

The federal government on Wednesday allocated Rs 2.12 trillion for the armed forces in the upcoming fiscal year 2024-2025, a substantial increase of 17.6 percent compared to last year’s budget.

This is the second-largest hike in the defence budget in six years and marks the second consecutive year of increased funding for the armed forces.

Last year, there was a 15 percent increase in defence budget – different from the traditional 11 percent annual increase which took place over the last decade.

Interestingly, according to budget figures presented to the NA by the government, it has been revealed the armed forces exceeded last year’s allocated budget of Rs 1.8 trillion, in reality spending Rs 1.83 trillion.

The significant hike in defence spending highlights Pakistan’s priorities in a region marred by geopolitical tensions.