LAHORE: Punjab has unveiled a Rs5,903 billion budget for the financial year 2026-27, describing it as a “people-friendly” financial plan focused on public relief, development spending and continuity of services without new taxes.
The budget, presented in the Punjab Assembly on June 16, comes amid strong political confrontation, with opposition lawmakers rejecting the proposals and staging protests during the session. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman attended the sitting, where the finance minister presented the fiscal framework.
According to official figures, Rs752 billion has been allocated for development projects, while the government has also proposed salary and pension increases for public employees and retirees. Health and education sectors have been allocated Rs500 billion and Rs750 billion respectively.
Development and Fiscal Priorities
Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman said the budget reflects the government’s commitment to development and fiscal stability. He said salaries of ministers had been reduced and the administration aimed to maintain development momentum across all districts.
He added that Punjab had contributed Rs546 billion to the federal government and claimed that more than 400,000 jobs had been provided on merit under the government’s initiatives.
Law and Order and Governance Spending
The provincial government also highlighted major allocations for public services, including over Rs1.1 trillion earmarked for salaries and pensions combined.
Government employees are expected to receive a proposed 7% salary increase, while pensions may rise by 3.5%. Around Rs650 billion has been allocated for salaries and Rs505 billion for pension payments.
Health and Education Investment
The budget sets aside Rs500 billion for the health sector and Rs750 billion for education, as part of broader social sector spending.
Officials said these allocations are aimed at improving service delivery in hospitals, schools and other public institutions across the province.
Opposition Rejection and Assembly Disruption
The budget session witnessed disruptions as opposition members protested during the finance minister’s speech. Opposition Leader Moeen Riaz Qureshi rejected the budget, calling it unrealistic and disconnected from public needs.
He argued that the financial plan lacked practical solutions for farmers and ordinary citizens and relied heavily on rhetoric.
Government Response
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif defended the budget, saying the government had prepared a balanced financial plan under challenging economic conditions while avoiding additional tax burdens.
She expressed confidence that the budget would support ongoing reforms and improve public services across the province.
The Punjab Assembly is expected to continue debate on the budget in the coming days as political tensions persist between the treasury and opposition benches.
Also Read: Maryam Nawaz’s Record Energy Budget To Boost Green Power In Punjab: Minister
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