Pakistan’s recently proposed budget for 2023-2024 falls far short of the worldwide average. Defense spending has been steadily declining over the years, with historical numbers suggesting a dramatic reduction from 5.5% and 6.5% of GDP in the 1960s and 1970s to 1.7% of GDP in the most recent budget. While per capita defense spending may look low in comparison to other countries, Pakistan's military has constantly demonstrated outstanding efficiency and cost-effective resource utilization, cementing its status as the world's seventh most formidable military force.
In the face of budgetary restrictions, Pakistan's military has taken a number of steps to maximize resources and guarantee fiscal restraint. Austerity measures have resulted in significant cost reductions. These actions demonstrate the military's consistent commitment to efficient budget allocation and adaptability in the face of challenges; however, it is crucial to critically examine the potential consequences of Pakistan's defense budget on national security and the well-being of its citizens. Achieving a delicate equilibrium between economic progress and national security is a multifaceted challenge that demands prudent decision-making and a long-term vision. With defense expenditure accounting for approximately 1.7% 0f the GDP and 12.5% of the total government expenditure, Pakistan’s budgetary allocation reflects a nominal increase despite a challenging high inflation rate. This decision underscores Pakistan’s commitment to strike a balance between security needs and economic considerations. 
Another critical element of Pakistan's national security lies in the realm of non-traditional security—the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). Following the partition of the subcontinent in 1947, the IWT was signed in 1960 to ensure the equitable sharing of water resources between India and Pakistan. Backed by the World Bank, this treaty played a vital role in securing water supply for millions of people in Pakistan.
Under the IWT, control over the rivers was allocated, granting India authority over the eastern rivers while Pakistan received the Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers. Pakistan became the primary recipient, securing 80 percent of the total water, with India receiving the remaining 20 percent. Despite political and strategic differences, the implementation of the IWT has largely remained intact, with disputes settled through established legal procedures outlined in the treaty.
However, strained relations between India and Pakistan, particularly under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have raised concerns about the future of the treaty. The refusal to engage in dialogue and unilateral measures, such as the integration of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, have created uncertainty regarding India's commitment to the IWT. This situation underscores the urgent need for a more amicable environment and technical interventions to address evolving challenges in the Indus Basin.
Securing a prosperous and stable future for Pakistan necessitates adopting a comprehensive approach to national security. This approach requires a careful assessment of strategic priorities, including defense spending, resource optimization, and the preservation of vital agreements such as the IWT.
Pakistan's defense budget and the implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty are critical elements in safeguarding national security. Despite budgetary constraints, Pakistan's military has consistently demonstrated efficiency and resource optimization. The commitment to strike a balance between security needs and economic considerations is commendable. Concurrently, the preservation and effective implementation of the IWT require a conducive environment and technical interventions to address the evolving challenges.

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