As we celebrate Defense Day on September 6th, 2025, we’re reminded of the bravery and sacrifices of our armed forces and people in 1965. But this year, our nation faces a new enemy – the devastating floods that are ravaging our towns and villages. It’s a harsh reality check for our defense system, which has long been geared towards protecting our borders.

The floods have brought unimaginable destruction, threatening millions of lives, crops, and infrastructure. Our armed forces are once again stepping up, rescuing families, rebuilding bridges, and providing medical care. Their efforts are commendable, but the scale of destruction reveals the vulnerability of our nation to non-traditional threats.

This crisis exposes weaknesses in our governance, planning, and disaster preparedness. We need strong systems to defend against climate disasters, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure. Without these, even the most powerful armies can’t fully protect us. The economic instability caused by such disasters can weaken national security, making us more vulnerable in the long run.

The Need for a Multi-Faceted Approach

To effectively address this challenge, we must adopt a multi-faceted approach that incorporates both military and civilian defense strategies. This includes:

• Investing in Disaster Preparedness: We need to invest in robust disaster preparedness systems, including early warning systems, emergency response plans, and resilient infrastructure.
• Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Our infrastructure should be designed to withstand the impacts of climate change, including floods, droughts, and heatwaves.
• Community Engagement: We need to engage with local communities to raise awareness about climate change and disaster risks, and to build their capacity to respond to and recover from disasters.
• Economic Stability: We need to ensure economic stability by diversifying our economy, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, and investing in social protection programs.

A Call to Action

On this Defense Day, let’s acknowledge that our survival depends on more than just military strength. It requires unity, foresight, and investment in both military and civilian defense. The floods are not just a natural calamity; they’re a threat to our nation’s strength and stability. Let’s work together to build a more resilient Pakistan.

By adopting a multi-faceted approach and investing in disaster preparedness, climate-resilient infrastructure, community engagement, and economic stability, we can reduce the risks associated with climate change and build a more secure future for our nation. Let’s take this opportunity to redefine our defense strategy and build a more resilient and prosperous Pakistan .