QUETTA: The Balochistan government has announced a Rs1,028 billion budget for the fiscal year 2025–26, with major emphasis on education, health, and sustainable development, ARY News reported.
Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani, presenting the budget, stated that the financial plan aims to drive transformative development, improve public welfare, and address key issues like healthcare, climate change, and education.
Of the total budget, Rs249 billion has been earmarked for development projects, while Rs642 billion will cover non-development expenditures, including administrative costs, salaries, and essential public services.
Salary & Pension Revisions
A 10% increase in salaries for government employees from grades 1 to 22 has been proposed. Retired employees will receive a 7% pension raise, and Rs1 billion has been allocated to the Pension Fund to ensure future stability. Additionally, a 20% Disparity Reduction Allowance is proposed for eligible employees in grades 1 to 16.
Health Sector
The health department will receive Rs16.4 billion for development projects and Rs71 billion for operational costs. The Balochistan Health Card has been allocated Rs4.5 billion to ensure access to medical care for citizens.
Education Sector
The government has proposed Rs28 billion for the education department, including Rs19.8 billion for school development and Rs101 billion for non-development costs. Colleges will receive Rs24 billion for operational expenses and Rs5 billion for development. The plan also includes the creation of 1,170 contract teaching jobs and 67 permanent positions to strengthen the education system.
Other Key Sectors
Agriculture will receive Rs10 billion for development and Rs16.77 billion for non-development activities. The food department is allocated Rs26.9 million for development and Rs1.19 billion for operational needs.
Rs18 billion has been allocated for Safe City projects in eight cities to enhance urban security, while Rs500 million will support climate change mitigation efforts, underlining the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
