Pakistan unveils 2025-26 budget with 17.6T rupees plan defense hike of 4.2% growth target, and IMF compliance.

• Defense budget rises 20% to 2.1T rupees, offset by development spending cuts.
• Fiscal deficit projected at 4.8% of GDP, down from 5.9% in 2024-25 under the IMF program.
• Tax base expansion and subsidy cuts are aimed at meeting IMF reforms, but revenue targets may be missed.