The Powerful Role of Army in Pakistan: 1 Key Contributions
The role of the army in Pakistan is a very important and controversial topic on which there are different opinions and views. The military has played an important role in Pakistan’s national security, politics, economy and foreign policy, giving it a unique position among the various institutions of the state. This article will discuss in detail the role of the military in Pakistan, covering political, economic, social and external aspects.
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Table of Contents
1.Historical background of the army:
“Pakistan Army was formed in 1947 at the time of the creation of Pakistan, when the British Indian Army was divided. At the time of this partition, Pakistan had to rebuild its military capabilities with limited resources and weak military infrastructure. From the beginning, the Role of Army in Pakistan has been crucial in dealing with border issues, particularly the dispute with India over the Kashmir issue, which made the military a vital institution.
Since 1947, the Role of Army in Pakistan has remained significant as the country has fought several wars, including the wars of 1948, 1965, 1971, and 1999. These conflicts strengthened the army as the country’s defense institution and also gained public support.”
2. The political role of the army:
The Role of Army in Pakistan has not been limited to defense and security alone; it has also played a significant role in the country’s political landscape. Since its formation in 1947, the army has been a powerful institution influencing governance, policy-making, and national stability.
Military Interventions in Politics
Pakistan has witnessed multiple military coups, with the army taking direct control of the government in 1958, 1977, and 1999. These interventions were often justified in the name of political instability, corruption, and national security. Military rule has shaped Pakistan’s political system, with generals assuming leadership roles and making crucial policy decisions.
Army’s Influence in Civil Affairs
Even during civilian governments, the Role of Army in Pakistan remains significant. The military influences foreign policy, especially regarding India, Afghanistan, and the United States. Additionally, the army has a say in national security matters, economic policies, and strategic planning.
Public Perception and Political Stability
The public perception of the military’s political role is mixed. Some view it as a stabilizing force, while others criticize its interference in democratic processes. The Role of Army in Pakistan in politics remains a debated topic, with discussions on maintaining a balance between civilian supremacy and military influence.
3. Military and national security:
“The most basic and important Role of Army in Pakistan is to protect the national security of Pakistan. Pakistan has been facing conflicts with India since its inception, the biggest example of which is the Kashmir issue. Because of this conflict, the military has always needed to be ready, and the meaning of national security in Pakistan is often linked to the military’s defense preparedness and strategy.
Four wars with India and constant border disputes further increased the Role of Army in Pakistan. In response to India’s nuclear tests in 1998, Pakistan also carried out nuclear tests, establishing a nuclear balance in the region. This balance has also been part of the army’s strategy.”
4. Army’s role against terrorism:
After joining the US in the war against terrorism in 2001, Pakistan faced serious security challenges internally. The army has played a key role in the war against terrorism, particularly in North Waziristan and the tribal areas, carrying out operations against terrorist groups.
5. Military and foreign policy:
The role of the army in Pakistan’s foreign policy has also been important. The opinion and role of the military has always been prominent in Pakistan’s relations, especially with the United States, China, and Saudi Arabia. During the Afghan war, the army cooperated closely with the United States and played an important role in the war against the Taliban.
The role of the military is also important in Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China. In major projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the security and surveillance role of the military is important.
6. The military and the economy:
Pakistan Army also has a unique role in the country’s economy. The Army has launched various business enterprises and economic ventures, including organizations such as the Army Foundation, NLC, and Askari Bank. These institutions play an important role in the country’s economy and ensure the financial independence of the army.
7. The military and the judicial system:
Establishment of military courts in cases of terrorism and serious crimes is also a controversial topic in Pakistan. After the attack on the Army Public School in 2014, military courts were established to speedily dispose of terrorist cases. These courts have convicted many terrorists, but human rights organizations have objected that military courts undermine the transparency of the judicial process.
8. The Army and Social Role:
The social role of the army is also prominent in Pakistan. During various natural calamities like earthquakes and floods, the army actively participated in relief activities. These services of the army have increased public support for the army.
9۔ Defense Industry and Self-Reliance:
The Pakistan Army has taken various steps towards self-reliance in the defense industry. In Pakistan, institutions like Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT), Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF), and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) are playing an important role in the production of defense equipment. These institutions have helped Pakistan become self-sufficient in defense equipment, which has significantly increased the country’s defense capability.
10۔ Soft Image and Role in Media:
The Pakistan Army is also playing its role in improving the soft image of Pakistan at the national and international levels. Through Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Army has presented various documentaries, dramas, and songs that highlight the country’s patriotism and sacrifices. These efforts help in portraying the role of the army in a positive light and strengthening its relationship with the public.
The result
The Role of Army in Pakistan of the military in Pakistan is broad and deep, affecting all aspects of the country’s politics, economy, national security and foreign policy. Army has played an important role in the history of the country not only in defense but also in political and economic fields. While the military is praised for its achievements in national security and the war against terrorism, it is also criticized for its meddling in the political process and its insignificant role in the economy.
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