Ahsan Iqbal: Indian Military Admits Aircraft Losses, Pakistan Emerges Stronger Post-Conflict

Lahore:Federal Minister for Planning **Ahsan Iqbal** stated that the **Indian Army has admitted to the loss of fighter jets** during recent clashes, declaring that the **three-day conflict shattered the arrogance of Indian leadership**.

Speaking at the **thesis display inauguration** at the **Institute of Fashion Design, Lahore**, Iqbal said that since **May 10**, a **stronger and more resilient image of Pakistan** has emerged. “Just as we achieved success in **Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad**, we will also succeed on the **economic front**,” he asserted.

Highlighting efforts to stabilize the economy, he noted,

> “**Curbing tax evasion** will improve the economy. We’ve already begun a **digitalization process** to enhance transparency and enforcement.”

He emphasized the importance of **equipping youth with digital skills**, stating,

> “We will empower our youth with **21st-century capabilities**, not teach them to sell chickens and eggs.”

Ahsan Iqbal stressed that it is now crucial to **provide the military with adequate resources**, contrasting it with the past when, in his words,

> “We used to roam around with a begging bowl—today, Pakistan stands in a position of dignity.”

The minister’s comments came following a rare admission by India’s **Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan**, who confirmed in an interview with **Bloomberg** that **fighter jets were lost in skirmishes with Pakistan**. Although he declined to specify the number—reportedly up to six—he remarked,

> “The number is not important. What matters is understanding **why the aircraft were lost**.”

This acknowledgment marks the **first official Indian confirmation** of aerial losses in the recent conflict and is being seen as a **diplomatic and strategic victory** for Pakistan.