Pakistan Budget 2025–26: Key Highlights

Pakistan Federal Budget 2025–26 – Full Summary in Plain Text

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Budget Size and Main Focus

• The total budget for 2025–26 is 17.57 trillion Pakistani Rupees.

• It is 7% less than last year’s budget of 18.9 trillion.

• The government is focusing on controlling the fiscal deficit, boosting tax collection, and encouraging exports.

• GDP growth target is set at 4.2% for the coming year.

• Fiscal deficit target is 3.9% of GDP, reduced from last year’s 5.9%.

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Defence and Security Spending

• Defence budget has been increased by 20%, reaching 2.55 trillion rupees.

• This is about 19 to 20% of the total budget and roughly 2.5% of the national GDP.

• The rise is influenced by recent security concerns and military tensions.

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Taxation and Revenue Generation

• Tax revenue target is set at 14.1 trillion rupees, showing an increase of nearly 19%.

• Income tax relief has been introduced for salaried individuals. Those earning between 600,000 and 1.2 million rupees per year will now pay only 2.5% tax, reduced from 5%.

• The tax net is being widened to include sectors like agriculture, real estate, and retail.

• Inflation is expected to stay around 7.5% during this fiscal year.

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Public Development and Services

• Development and public service spending has been reduced.

• Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) has been trimmed compared to previous years.

• Health, education, and social sectors will continue to receive funding but at a controlled rate due to fiscal tightening.

• Transfers to provinces will continue under the NFC Award.

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Economic Goals and Reforms

• The budget is part of a broader reform plan supported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

• Focus is on reducing reliance on loans, improving economic management, and increasing exports.

• Import duties on raw materials are being reduced to support local industries.

• There is a push for structural reforms, but critics say deeper reforms are still needed.

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Summary Table

• Total Budget: 17.57 trillion PKR

• GDP Growth Target: 4.2%

• Fiscal Deficit Target: 3.9% of GDP

• Defence Budget: 2.55 trillion PKR (20% increase)

• Tax Revenue Target: 14.1 trillion PKR

• Inflation Estimate: 7.5%

• Tax Relief: 2.5% tax for 600k–1.2m annual income group

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Trade Wars Disrupt Markets and Ads

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Trade Wars and Market Disruption

In 2025, global trade tensions have sharply intensified, with major economies like the U.S., China, the EU, and others imposing and retaliating with tariffs on key sectors such as steel, electronics, autos, and agricultural products. These tariffs function like invisible taxes, raising costs for companies and ultimately for consumers.

As a result, companies face increased production costs, disrupted supply chains, and delays in deliveries. Many firms are now relocating their manufacturing bases from China to Southeast Asia, Latin America, or Eastern Europe to avoid heavy duties. However, these transitions are slow and costly.

The impact on global markets is significant. Stock exchanges across the U.S., Europe, and Asia have become highly volatile. Investor confidence is shaken by every new tariff announcement or trade policy shift. Currencies are also fluctuating as traders move funds into safer investments, fearing prolonged economic uncertainty.

Consumer prices are rising cars, electronics, furniture, and even groceries have become more expensive in many countries. With rising inflation and stagnant wages, household spending power is being eroded. Consumers are delaying non-essential purchases, directly affecting retail sales and overall economic growth.

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The Advertising Industry’s Struggles

Trade wars are indirectly but strongly affecting global advertising as well. When the economy slows down, companies slash their marketing budgets and that’s what’s happening now. Leading ad agencies have downgraded growth forecasts for 2025, expecting a much smaller rise in ad spending than originally predicted.

Traditional advertising mediums like television are suffering. Brands are pulling back from upfront ad commitments due to uncertainty, and broadcasters are facing reduced income. At the same time, digital advertising is shifting too brands prefer performance-based ads with clear returns, like paid search or social media ads, but even these are being cautiously managed.

Companies now prefer shorter contracts and more flexible campaigns. There is a visible shift from expensive productions to quick, efficient content often made using AI or user-generated videos. This allows businesses to stay visible without spending as much, especially while markets remain unstable.

Retail media ads placed on e-commerce platforms is still growing but at a slower rate than in previous years, due to weaker consumer demand. Many brands are also shifting focus to domestic or regional markets to hedge against trade uncertainty.

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Broader Impact and Future Outlook

This ongoing trade uncertainty is not just a short-term glitch it is reshaping how global business operates. More companies are now prioritizing supply chain resilience over cost-efficiency. Advertising is evolving, becoming more digital, more reactive, and less reliant on long-term branding strategies.

If these trade tensions continue, we can expect more conservative marketing, slower global economic growth, and ongoing pressure on both consumers and corporations. For the advertising world, this means a greater focus on results, flexibility, and survival strategies in a climate of rising costs and unpredictable policies.

In short, trade wars are no longer just about tariffs they are changing the way economy's function, how companies advertise, and how people spend.

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Top Private Universities in Istanbul (2025)

Istanbul, a city where East meets West, is home to some of Turkey’s most prestigious private universities. These institutions offer world-class education, cutting-edge research facilities, and globally recognized programs that attract students from all over the world. In 2025, several private universities in Istanbul have risen to prominence in global rankings, thanks to their academic excellence, strong industry partnerships, and international outlook. Whether you're interested in medicine, engineering, business, or social sciences, Istanbul’s top private universities provide a rich blend of quality education and cultural experience.

1. Koç University – Sarıyer, Istanbul (European Side)

Koç University is widely regarded as the best private university in Turkey. Located in the serene area of Sarıyer, it boasts a large, modern campus and strong English-taught programs. The university excels in research, medicine, engineering, and social sciences. It consistently ranks in the top 100–150 universities worldwide due to its international faculty, research funding, and partnerships with global institutions.

Why It’s on Top:

• Highest global ranking among Turkish privates

• Strong in research and graduate employment

• English-medium instruction and scholarships

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2. Sabancı University – Tuzla, Istanbul (Asian Side)

Sabancı University is a research-driven institution known for its interdisciplinary approach. Located in Tuzla, its modern campus supports innovation in engineering, natural sciences, and business. It ranks among the top 150 globally.

Why It’s on Top:

• Flexible academic structure

• Strong industrial and academic partnerships

• Focus on innovation and entrepreneurship

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3. Istanbul Medipol University – Bağcılar/Kavacık (Both Sides)

Medipol has gained fame due to its focus on medical sciences, pharmacy, and health sciences. With campuses on both the Asian and European sides, it offers high-quality practical education supported by its own hospital network.

Why It’s on Top:

• Leading university in health and medical research

• Large clinical practice network

• Rapid rise in national and international rankings

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4. Yeditepe University – Ataşehir, Istanbul (Asian Side)

Yeditepe is known for its comprehensive programs ranging from engineering to dentistry. The university offers an American-style education with English as the medium of instruction. Its main campus is modern and tech equipped.

Why It’s on Top:

• Wide academic program range

• English-medium instruction

• Strong alumni network and job placement

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5. Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University – Ataşehir, Istanbul (Asian Side)

Acıbadem is a top institution in the medical and health sciences fields. Affiliated with the prestigious Acıbadem Healthcare Group, it provides hands-on medical education with modern laboratories and hospitals.

Why It’s on Top:

• Strong industry integration (Acıbadem Hospitals)

• Leading in medical education

• State-of-the-art facilities

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6. Istinye University – Sarıyer/Topkapı, Istanbul (European Side)

Istinye University is relatively new but has quickly risen in rankings due to its research-oriented environment and strong backing from the MLPCare healthcare group. It offers programs in health, technology, and business.

Why It’s on Top:

• Fastest-growing private university

• Practical education in health sciences

• Modern urban campuses

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7. Bahçeşehir University – Beşiktaş, Istanbul (European Side)

Located in the heart of Istanbul, Bahçeşehir University is known for its international outlook. It has global campuses and exchange programs in the U.S., Germany, and Canada. The university excels in engineering, business, and media.

Why It’s on Top:

• Global campus network

• Strong international student body

• Industry-focused education

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8. Istanbul Bilgi University – Eyüp/Santral, Istanbul (European Side)

Bilgi University is a liberal and progressive institution, especially strong in law, media, and social sciences. It is one of the few Turkish universities ranked in global QS rankings. The Santral Campus is located at a former power plant turned cultural center.

Why It’s on Top:

• Creative, liberal arts focus

• International recognition

• Culturally rich and innovative campus

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9. Özyeğin University – Çekmeköy, Istanbul (Asian Side)

Özyeğin University is a research-oriented institution with a beautiful green campus in Çekmeköy. It is known for its entrepreneurship and innovation culture, and its business and engineering schools are highly ranked.

Why It’s on Top:

• Entrepreneurial ecosystem

• Scholarships and modern campus

• Rising research productivity

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10. Kadir Has University – Cibali, Istanbul (European Side)

Kadir Has University is located near the Golden Horn and has a strong focus on humanities, international relations, and design. It’s a mid-size university that combines tradition with modern academic offerings.

Why It’s on Top:

• Central location in historic Istanbul

• Well-known programs in arts and politics

• English-medium education and international ties

These universities are at the top not only because of academic performance but also because of strong global ties, industry integration, English-taught programs, and active research environments. Each one offers something unique, whether it's health sciences, engineering, social impact, or business education. For international students or local scholars seeking quality education in Istanbul, these ten are the best private options as of 2025.

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Pakistan’s Security & Foreign Affairs: June 2025 Outlook

1. Internal Security & Counterterrorism Measures

The government continues to prioritize internal security, with operations underway against banned militant outfits in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Intelligence-based operations (IBOs) have intensified in response to a recent uptick in targeted attacks, particularly along the western border.

The military leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating terrorism, with the Chief of Army Staff stating that any threat to national integrity will be met with “full force.” Civil-military coordination is being enhanced under the National Action Plan 2.0, and there is renewed focus on tightening border management and eliminating sleeper cells.

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2. Afghan Border & Western Front

The situation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border remains tense. Cross-border infiltration and militant movements continue to pose challenges. Pakistan has urged the interim Afghan government to prevent the use of Afghan soil by terrorist elements targeting Pakistani forces and civilians.

Border fencing efforts are ongoing, and several new border posts have been established. Diplomatic backchannels remain active, but progress is slow due to trust deficits and security realities on the ground.

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3. India-Pakistan Relations

While there has been no formal dialogue between Islamabad and New Delhi in recent months, backchannel contacts reportedly continue in an attempt to reduce LOC tensions. Both sides are maintaining a fragile ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control since February 2021, though incidents of surveillance drone activity and military build-up are occasionally reported.

Kashmir remains the central issue. Pakistan continues to raise concerns at international forums about human rights in Indian-administered Kashmir. However, the global response remains largely symbolic, with little pressure exerted on India.

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4. China-Pakistan Strategic Cooperation

Pakistan’s partnership with China remains robust, with recent progress in the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Security around CPEC projects has been tightened following past attacks on Chinese nationals. A dedicated protection division continues to escort Chinese engineers and workers.

Strategic dialogue between Islamabad and Beijing has also included defense cooperation, joint military training, and cybersecurity collaborations. China remains a key partner for economic and military support amid shifting global alliances.

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5. Relations with the US and Gulf States

Pakistan is cautiously rebuilding its relationship with the United States. Cooperation remains focused on counterterrorism, regional stability, and climate-related issues. However, the US has maintained a transactional posture, and strategic trust is still fragile post-Afghanistan withdrawal.

Meanwhile, ties with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar have strengthened economically and diplomatically. Gulf countries are investing in Pakistan’s energy and agriculture sectors, and Pakistan continues to offer skilled labor and military training support in return.

Pakistan’s security strategy in 2025 is marked by proactive counterterrorism, cautious diplomacy, and strong reliance on regional allies like China and the Gulf states. While internal threats persist and regional relations remain complex, the overall direction is one of maintaining sovereignty, securing economic corridors, and ensuring regional balance through calculated diplomacy.

Public awareness, community engagement, and media responsibility remain key to supporting national efforts for a safer and more stable Pakistan.

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Monsoon Flood Alert: 2025 Outlook & Safety Guide for Pakistan

Monsoon Flood Threat and Weather Outlook in Pakistan

Pakistan is preparing for the summer monsoon season of 2025, with authorities warning of unusually heavy rains in many regions. National weather agencies expect the monsoon to arrive early – around late June – and bring near-normal to above-normal rainfall across central and southern Pakistan. Forecasters predict hotter-than-usual temperatures nationwide, which can worsen flooding by accelerating snow and glacier melt. Agencies like the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) caution that the combination of heavy monsoon downpours and heat will raise flood risks from July through September. Overall rainfall is expected to be slightly higher than average, with especially enhanced rainfall over eastern Punjab, Kashmir and parts of Sindh, while northern highlands (Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) may see average or even below-average rains.

Recent forecasts stress that river flooding, flash floods and urban inundation are more likely this year. The PMD’s monsoon outlook (released May 2025) calls for “normal to slightly above-normal” rains in the monsoon core (Punjab, Sindh) and warns of dust storms, hail and strong winds accompanying storms. NDMA briefings to parliament echoed this: Punjab’s northeast and southern parts could see up to 50% more rainfall than usual, while Balochistan will remain mostly dry and hot. Sindh’s upper districts (Sukkur, Jacobabad, etc.) and Karachi’s coastal areas are also flagged for above-normal rain, raising urban flood concerns. Monsoon rains from July onward may be particularly intense in hills and plains, increasing the chance of hill torrent flash floods and overflows on major rivers like the Indus. Authorities emphasize that the first half of the season could bring the worst flooding, so communities should prepare early.

High-Risk Regions for Flooding

• Sindh (South and Central) – Heavy rains are likely, especially in northern Sindh (Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad). Lower Sindh (Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Mirpur Khas) will get relief from dry spells but may see urban flooding episodes. Karachi’s drainage often cannot handle deluges, so even moderate storms can inundate low-lying areas. Coastal cities also face storm surge and drainage overflow during intense downpours. In addition, parts of Tharparkar (east Sindh) may see localized extreme rains, leading to flash floods in normally arid terrain.

• Punjab (Central and South) – Much of Punjab is expected to be wetter than normal, especially north and northeast (Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala regions) as well as floodplains of south Punjab. Hill torrents draining the Sulaiman foothills (Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Muzaffargarh, Layyah) are at risk of sudden flash floods, particularly later in July. Even densely populated cities like Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan face hazards: urban areas with poor drainage can flood quickly when heavy rain falls. Overall, the combination of heavy rain and melting mountain snow could push the Indus and its tributaries to high levels, threatening widespread riverine flooding in Punjab’s countryside.

• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Northern Areas – Rainfall will be uneven. The foothills and southern districts (Peshawar, Mardan, Swat, D.I. Khan) may see normal to above-normal rain, with the south benefiting from moist winds. Flash flooding is a concern in steep valleys and roads. Northern KP (Abbottabad, Chitral, Dir) and Gilgit-Baltistan could actually get below-normal rain, but intense storms are still possible. Very warm weather and intermittent rain may trigger Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in mountain areas (Hunza, Gilgit) due to melting glaciers. Hill regions of AJK will get heavy monsoon rains too, heightening landslide and creek flooding risks.

• Balochistan – Monsoon rains are generally light here, but the eastern and central districts (Khuzdar, Lasbela, Washuk) could receive slightly above-normal rain in the later monsoon. Western highland areas (Quetta, Zhob) will stay mostly dry. Even brief heavy storms pose a flash flood threat in Balochistan because the ground is hard and sparsely vegetated. Low-lying villages and roadways could be quickly cut off by sudden local floods. Overall, southern and northeastern Balochistan may see some beneficial rain this year, but widespread flooding is not expected.

Preparedness and Safety Tips

Pakistan’s disaster authorities urge everyone – city and village dwellers alike – to prepare now. Key steps include:

• Stay Informed: Monitor local weather forecasts and official alerts (PMD bulletins and NDMA advisories). Pay attention to warnings from local authorities and consider moving to safer areas if directed. Always have a battery-powered radio or mobile phone charged, and follow news updates during storms.

• Urban Safety Measures: In cities like Karachi, Lahore or Islamabad, clear storm drains and gutters of trash before the rains. Avoid traveling by car or foot when heavy rain is predicted – most flood injuries occur when people try to cross flooded streets. Keep sandbags or barriers ready around homes if you live in a low-lying area. Unplug non-essential electronics; secure loose rooftop items and ensure roofs and balconies drain properly. After floods, boil drinking water and avoid contact with floodwater if possible (it may carry disease).

• Rural and Hilly Area Safety: Villagers should move livestock and valuables to higher ground ahead of storms. Strengthen or build raised platforms near rivers and torrents for animals. Farmers along hill torrents should consider temporary levees or cleared channels to guide flash floods away from settlements. Keep boats and canoes ready if you live near swollen rivers. In general, do not camp or build houses close to riverbanks or canal embankments this season.

• Emergency Kit: Prepare a simple flood kit with essentials: clean water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, whistles, necessary medicines, and copies of important documents (ID cards, insurance papers) sealed in plastic. Store kits in elevated, waterproof containers. Keep cash and mobile charging devices handy.

• Backup Power and Shelter: Ensure power generators or battery packs are working. If electricity or utilities fail, have candles and portable chargers. Identify the nearest public shelter or community center in case you need to evacuate. Make a family communication plan and know emergency numbers. Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors, as they need extra help during floods.

• After the Storm: Once heavy rains pass, be alert for standing water and weakened riverbanks. Avoid flooded areas, and do not drive through high water – even a foot of moving water can sweep a car off the road. Report broken sewer or water lines and avoid using contaminated wells. If flooding occurs, listen for instructions on boil-water advisories or evacuations and move immediately if floodwaters rise around you.

By taking these precautions before the rains start, communities can greatly reduce injury and property damage. Both urban and rural populations should work with local officials (PDMAs) to stay prepared, keep drainage clear and know evacuation routes.

Climate and Infrastructure Factors

Pakistan’s vulnerability to monsoon floods has been growing over the past decades. Climate trends now favor heavier downpours: a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, so when storms come they tend to dump more rain. Studies of Pakistan’s record 2022 floods found that global warming likely made the torrential monsoon rains more intense (some analyses suggest a 10–50% boost). This means each heavy storm can cause more runoff and flooding than it used to.

At the same time, infrastructure and land-use issues magnify the impacts. Rapid urban growth has left many people living in flood-prone areas. In cities, poorly maintained drainage and encroachment on natural waterways make even moderate rain overwhelming. In farming areas, deforestation and soil erosion in hilly regions cause hill torrents to grow in intensity and speed. Pakistan’s main reservoirs (Tarbela, Mangla) currently hold ample water, which may help reduce flood peaks, but river embankments and levees in the plains are often outdated. Rapidly filling dams (like the under-construction Diamer-Bhasha) may also influence river flows over coming years.

Recognizing these challenges, authorities have updated contingency plans. They stress coordinated response: health services on alert for waterborne disease, maintenance teams clearing drains, and warning systems linking weather forecasts to local evacuations. Recent forums with international partners have highlighted the need for smarter land use – avoiding settlements on active flood plains – and investing in early warning networks (radar, sirens, SMS alerts).

Ultimately, flooding is part of Pakistan’s monsoon reality. But with early warnings from the PMD and NDMA, and by acting on lessons from past floods, people can limit damage. The main advice is clear: take the forecasts seriously, prepare ahead of time, and don’t underestimate the rain. If communities remain vigilant and heed the official guidance, lives and livelihoods can be saved despite this year’s heavy monsoon rains.

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