Bhuj: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh strongly criticized the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday for disbursing a fresh installment of financial aid to Pakistan, warning that the funds could be diverted to support terror activities.
Speaking during a visit to the Bhuj Air Force Station in Gujarat, Singh expressed serious concerns over the IMF’s decision to release USD 1.023 billion to Pakistan under its Extended Fund Facility programme. He urged the global community and the IMF to reconsider extending further financial assistance to the neighboring country.
“Pakistan is likely to use a significant portion of this IMF funding to bolster its terror infrastructure,” Singh said. “India appeals to the IMF and the international community to stop such support that could potentially fund cross-border terrorism.”
Singh also lauded the Indian Armed Forces for the successful execution of ‘Operation Sindoor’, praising their swift and decisive action.
“Our armed forces completed the mission in less time than most take to eat breakfast,” he remarked. “The operation’s impact was felt not just on the battlefield but reverberated across the world, showcasing the courage and determination of our forces.”
The Defence Minister’s comments come a day after his visit to Jammu and Kashmir, where he reviewed the overall security situation along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border.
IMF’s Financial Support to Pakistan
On May 14, the IMF released its second tranche of USD 1.023 billion to Pakistan as part of a short-term USD 3 billion bailout package aimed at stabilizing the country’s struggling economy.
Pakistan, which has long been dependent on IMF assistance, has received at least 25 bailout packages since joining the fund. According to IMF data, the country’s gross reserves rose to USD 10.3 billion as of end-April 2025 and are projected to increase to USD 13.9 billion by June 2025.
However, the IMF has also asked Pakistan to maintain a primary budget surplus of 1.6% of GDP, which would require generating over Rs 2 trillion beyond non-interest expenditures.
Rajnath Singh’s strong remarks reflect India’s persistent concerns about the misuse of international financial aid by Pakistan, especially in the context of regional security and terrorism.
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