Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has announced that, in view of the country’s current security situation, the defense budget for the armed forces will be increased in the upcoming fiscal year. At the same time, he assured that the public would also be provided with relief measures.
The federal government is scheduled to present the budget for fiscal year 2025–26 on June 10.
Speaking during a meeting with a delegation of engineers led by Secretary General of the Institution of Engineers Pakistan (IEP), Amir Zamir, the minister stated that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is now satisfied with the government's economic measures. He stressed that the upcoming budget is not under IMF pressure and that the government is committed to providing relief to the people.
Iqbal explained that the delay in presenting the budget was due to the Prime Minister’s foreign visit and the upcoming Eid holidays.
Commenting on political developments, the minister said that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has become isolated due to the policies of its founder, Imran Khan. He also criticized the PTI leadership’s reaction to the commendation of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, noting that the government's appreciation of his performance was not received positively by the former ruling party.
Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that the government would avoid any steps that could harm national unity or cohesion.
He reiterated the government's commitment to completing major water infrastructure projects, including the Diamer Bhasha Dam, to prevent India from exploiting regional water resources. He noted that the nation has remained united and motivated following success against India’s water aggression.
To counter Indian water hegemony, Iqbal said, the government will allocate funds on a priority basis to all key dam projects.
In addition to defense and infrastructure, the minister announced that the upcoming budget will include a paid internship program for young engineers. He also assured the engineering delegation that their demands would be considered and incorporated into the budget.
