Government Approves Rs45 Billion Supplementary Budget for Armed Forces

The government has approved an additional Rs45 billion budget for the armed forces to enhance their capacity, particularly to secure Chinese interests and manage border fencing. This decision was made during the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) meeting chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.

Strengthening Defence and Border Management

Out of the Rs45 billion budget, Rs35.4 billion will be allocated to the military, and Rs9.5 billion to the navy. This supplementary grant will support various defence projects already approved for the current fiscal year. The ECC approved Rs16 billion for the Special Security Division South, responsible for protecting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in the southern region, while Rs8 billion will be directed to the Special Security Division North for safeguarding the northern part of CPEC.

Ensuring Chinese Security and CPEC Continuity

China has expressed increasing concerns about security in Pakistan due to rising terror attacks. To address these, China has proposed a bilateral anti-terrorism cooperation agreement. Additionally, they suggested the establishment of a joint security company and projects involving ballistic protective vehicles and mobile securing equipment as part of CPEC phase-II.

The first phase of CPEC saw the completion of 38 projects valued at $25.2 billion, and 26 more projects worth $26.8 billion are in the pipeline under phase-II. However, security concerns have slowed down the progress.

Budget Allocation for Military and Navy

The ECC also approved Rs9.9 billion for the military’s internal security duties and Rs1.5 billion to manage the fencing along Pakistan’s international borders. The navy will receive Rs9.5 billion for the Jinnah Naval Base Ormara and Rs1.2 billion for the Naval Air Station in Turbat, further enhancing security capacities.

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) will be allocated Rs150 million for its internal security duty allowance. These additional funds are part of broader efforts to meet evolving security demands and ensure the stability of key national projects like CPEC.

Increased Allowances for Law Enforcement

In a related development, the ECC approved a 20% increase in the special allowance for Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) employees to bring their compensation in line with other federal law enforcement agencies. The revision will cost Rs264.7 million annually. ANF employees have long been receiving lower salaries compared to other law enforcement bodies, despite facing similar risks and challenges.

Addressing Anti-Rabies Vaccine Shortage

The ECC also discussed the short supply of Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) at the Federal General Hospital Chak Shahzad in Islamabad. The price of ARV, produced by the National Institute of Health, was raised from Rs891.65 to Rs1,980 per vial. This adjustment will cover the increased costs of imported materials and ensure sufficient production and supply to public hospitals.

Climate Change Commitment for COP29

Lastly, the ECC approved a Rs150 million supplementary grant for Pakistan’s participation in COP29, which will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22. This event will offer Pakistan the opportunity to showcase its efforts in renewable energy, afforestation, and disaster risk reduction as part of the global fight against climate change.