20% increase in Pakistan defence budget signals neighbour’s intent

NEW DELHI: Around 20% increase in Pakistan’s defence budget for 2018-19 to about $9.6 billion indicates that the neighbour is attempting to maintain a basic operational capability along the borders with India and the Line of Control. However, in comparison to India’s defence budget (Rs 2.95 lakh crore or $45 billion), it is five times lower.

“Their defence budget is not really India-centric, but the Pakistan armed forces need to maintain a basic operational capability.

So there has been an increase in their ‘operating expense’ and ‘physical assets’,” said an expert. The operating expense, which covers transport, ration, medical treatment, training, has grown by 12.4%. There has been a 16% increase for physical assets.


Experts noted the increase could also be used to back terrorist attacks in Kashmir. Another important reason could be dwindling US security aid. In January, the US had suspended about $1.1-billion security assistance to Pakistan until Islamabad took action against the militant groups allegedly operating out of its territory.