Quetta, The Balochistan government has unveiled a PKR 930 billion budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The budget focuses on developmental and non-developmental expenditures, with significant funding earmarked for sectors such as education, health, agriculture development, and food security.
According to Zameen.Com, Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Noshirwani presented the Finance Bill 2025 to the Balochistan Assembly. The budget details show an allocation of PKR 609 billion for non-development expenses and PKR 321 billion dedicated to developmental projects. This allocation marks a historic move as it includes 70% of the approved development projects in the budget proposal, a first for the province.
The budget prioritizes education with an allocation of PKR 146.9 billion and sets aside PKR 20 billion for health initiatives. Over PKR 23.8 billion is designated for agriculture development, and more than PKR 1 billion for food security efforts. In a significant boost to government employees, the budget introduces a 25% salary increase for grades 1 to 16 and a 22% hike for grades 17 to 22. Pensions will also see a 15% rise.
Earlier, the Balochistan cabinet had approved the budget proposal, committing to fund 100% of the approved development projects. CM Bugti emphasized the importance of timely project implementation, warning against delays and the subsequent withholding of additional funds.
This announcement follows earlier budget presentations by other provinces, including Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and sets a significant precedent in Balochistan's fiscal strategy. The province aims to ensure efficient utilization of funds to accelerate developmental outcomes.