Senator Demands 40% Boost in Defense Budget, Military Pay Hike

Breaking: Senator Pushes for 40% Defense Budget Hike & Salary Doubling

In a high-stakes Senate session, Senator Faisal Vawda demanded a 40% surge in Pakistan’s defense budget and doubling of armed forces salaries, citing escalating regional threats. The proposal comes as tensions with India persist and internal security challenges grow.

Key Demands

💰 40% defense budget increase – One of the largest jumps in history.
💵 Double salaries for Army, Navy, Air Force personnel.
🛑 Halt non-essential development spending – Redirect funds to security.

Why Such a Sharp Increase?

1. Rising Security Threats

• Indian border tensions (post-Balakot, Kashmir standoff).

• Cross-border terrorism concerns.

• Afghan instability spillover risk.

2. Military Modernization Needs

• JF-17 upgrades, new drones, naval fleet expansion.

• Countering India’s S-400, Rafale jets.

3. Inflation & Morale Boost

• Current salaries eroded by 30%+ inflation.

• “Our soldiers deserve parity with regional forces” – Vawda.

Senate Reactions: Support & Opposition

✅ Pro-Increase Voices

• Senator Irfan Siddiqui: “We must prioritize security over roads when under threat.”

• Ex-Finance Minister Ishaq Dar: “India’s proxies won’t stop unless we show strength.”

❌ Counterarguments

• Senator Sherry Rehman: “Butchers of children aren’t freedom fighters—but can we afford this?”

• Economists warn: 40% hike may crash IMF talks, spike debt.

What Would a 40% Hike Mean?

📊 Current defense budget: ~$8billion(2024-25).📈\ast \ast After40$11.2 billion.
⚠ Trade-offs: Possible cuts to health, education, CPEC projects.

Global Context

🌍 India spends 3x more on defense ($72B in 2024).
🇨🇳 China’s model: Heavy military investment + economic growth.
💣 Ukraine lesson: “Weak militaries invite aggression” – Vawda.

Possible Outcomes

✔ Stronger deterrence vs. India/Afghan threats.
❌ Fiscal crisis risk if revenue doesn’t match spending.
⚖️ Balancing act needed – Guns vs. butter debate rages.

Final Analysis

This isn’t just about money—it’s a strategic crossroads. While threats are real, Pakistan must weigh security vs. survival economics.