Dr. Noor Fatima (Economist): In my opinion, this budget was different in many respects from the previous years’ budgets. This developmental and pro-growth budget is aimed at sustainable growth in the country. The government has allocated significant funds for improvement of agricultural sector as this area was completely neglected during the reign of previous governments. Moreover, the budget allocation for power transmission lines is quite appreciable. It is responsibility of the state to ensure smooth transmission of electricity to consumers. The amount will also be spent on improving the transmission system in order to avoid wastage of electricity. The government also granted an increment of 10% in the salaries of public servants that will encourage the employees to work with dedication. The government must intervene to control the supplies in markets and production to eliminate monopolies of profiteers. Free market economy does not mean to leave people at the mercy of traders.

Dr. Salman Shah (Advisor to Punjab Government): This was purely an investment-oriented budget. Almost all important segments have been given incentives in the current budget. If we look at agriculture, services, industry, IT and exports, the present government has tried to allocate considerable amounts for these sectors despite its limited resources. Moreover, social protection of poor segments of society has also been well taken care of in this budget. Pakistan has big potential in agriculture but unfortunately it was not utilized in the past. We have to look for quality seeds, better infrastructure and dedicated markets. Improvement of agricultural sector can make the GDP growth of the country double. There is a need to carry forward the momentum.

Shakeel Ramay (Economist): The current budget seems balanced but it is a fact that Pakistan has to return heavy loans next year that will have impact on the economy. This year the agricultural sector has played a big part in GDP growth. The IMF and State Bank of Pakistan were not expecting 3.94% GDP in the current fiscal year, but the agricultural sector overcame the expectations of the IMF and State Bank. The government needs to devise effective policies to promote this sector. There is a need to accelerate per acre growth. For this purpose, we should take advantage of Chinese expertise. China can support Pakistan in provision of latest agricultural machinery and pesticides. Moreover, the government must give maximum relief and subsidies to small farmers to motivate them to increase growth. Pakistan should also look for new export markets in order to generate revenues.

Dr. Huma Baqai (IR Expert): The human rights concerns in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir were not addressed by Trump regime that encouraged Indian government to continue its worst atrocities in IIOJ&K. However, Biden administration is taking notice of the violation of human rights in IIOJ&K. It has also been noted that voices against New Delhi’s policies and its human rights abuses in IIOJ&K are increasing in India itself. The Kashmir issue has been internationalized and the public opinion on Kashmir across the globe is gradually changing. Pakistan at its end is using every international forum and diplomatic channels to highlight Kashmiris’ genocide at the hands of Indian forces. The only solution of Kashmir issue is in accordance with the UN resolutions and as per wishes of Kashmiris.