Military Inc: Inside Pakistan's Military Economy

When it comes to Pakistan's military, one cannot overlook its extensive involvement in the country's economy. Known as "Military Inc," the Pakistan military has substantial economic interests that span across various sectors, making it a unique player in the country's financial landscape. In this article, we delve into the intricate workings of Pakistan's military economy, shedding light on its various dimensions and providing insights into this powerful entity's control over critical sectors.

The Evolution of Military Inc

The roots of Military Inc can be traced back to Pakistan's early years as an independent nation. The military, being a strong institution from the beginning, has always played a significant role in shaping Pakistan's political and economic landscape. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that the military's involvement in the economy started to take a formal shape. The establishment of military-run corporations and the acquisition of vast land holdings laid the foundation for what would become the military's economic empire.

Sector Dominance: Arms and Defense

Unsurprisingly, the military's primary domain of influence lies within the defense sector. With a large defense budget, the Pakistan military not only ensures the country's security but also has a significant say in arms procurement and defense-related industries. Military-owned entities, such as the Defense Housing Authorities (DHAs),are actively involved in real estate development and housing projects, generating substantial revenue streams. Additionally, the Pakistan military has also diversified into industries like manufacturing arms, ammunition, and military equipment, playing a crucial role in meeting the armed forces' requirements.

Military Inc.: Inside Pakistan's Military Economy

by Ayesha Siddiqa(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3066 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	320 pages

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Military and Media

Another sector where the military wields considerable influence is the media industry. Over the past few decades, the military has acquired media outlets, both directly and indirectly, enabling it to shape public opinion and control the narrative on various issues. The military's control over the media not only helps in maintaining its dominance but also serves as a tool for propaganda and information warfare.

Land Ownership and Commercial Ventures

Land holdings have long been an integral part of Military Inc's economic influence. The military owns vast stretches of valuable land across the country, often acquired through government allocations or confiscated through military legislation. This control over land has allowed the military to engage in commercial ventures, including agriculture, real estate, and even corporate acquisitions. These economic activities not only contribute to the military's financial power but also grant it significant leverage in policymaking and decision-making.

Accountability and Transparency Challenges

One of the significant concerns surrounding Military Inc is the lack of transparency and accountability. Due to its status as a powerful institution, the military enjoys certain privileges when it comes to financial operations. As a result, there is limited public oversight of its economic activities, which raises questions about fairness and potential conflicts of interest. Critics argue that the secretive nature of Military Inc undermines democratic principles and hampers the country's overall development.

Military Inc's existence and influence within Pakistan's economy are undeniable. From defense to media and land ownership, the military's presence permeates various sectors, shaping the country's economic landscape in substantial ways. While its economic prowess has undoubtedly yielded benefits in certain areas, the lack of transparency and accountability pose challenges to Pakistan's democratic processes. To ensure a sustainable and fair economic environment, it is essential for Pakistan to strike a balance between defense needs and transparent governance that encourages private enterprise and ensures equal opportunities for all.

Military Inc.: Inside Pakistan's Military Economy

by Ayesha Siddiqa(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3066 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	320 pages

FREE

Pakistan is a strategic ally of the US in the ‘war on terror’. It is the third largest recipient of US aid in the world. Yet Pakistan is a state run by its army and intelligence service.

Operating in the shadows, Pakistan’s military industrial complex owns and controls swathes of the economic and political landscape of the country. Military Inc. dares to illuminate the military as an oppressive holding company possessing not just security-related businesses, but also hotels, shopping malls, insurance companies, banks, farms and even an airline. The result is a deeply undemocratic society, where money is funnelled towards the military's economic enterprises, leaving those in need of it impoverished and effectively disenfranchised.

With an empirical richness, and a view to Pakistan’s recent history, Ayesha Siddiqa offers a detailed and powerful case study of a global phenomenon: corruption, hollow economic growth and elitism.

This new edition includes a chapter on the recent developments of the military's foray into the media, and a new preface.