Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah presented a Rs. 3.45 trillion provincial budget for 2025-26, aiming to drive inclusive development through major investments in education, health, social welfare, and infrastructure. The budget shows a 12.9% increase from last year, with a projected deficit of Rs. 38.4 billion.
Tax Relief and Salary Increases
The budget proposes tax relief instead of new levies. Five taxes, including Professional Tax and Entertainment Duty, have been abolished. Vehicle tax has been reduced. However Salaries for government employees in BPS-1 to BPS-16 will rise by 12%, and those in BPS-17 to BPS-22 by 10%. Pensions will see an 8% hike.
Education Gets a Major Boost
The education sector has been allocated Rs. 523.7 billion, marking a 12.4% increase. However Funds will empower over 34,000 schools with direct budgets. New IBA community colleges will be established, and 4,400 new staff members hired. The Sindh Educational Endowment Fund receives Rs. 2 billion for underprivileged students.
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Healthcare Spending Rises
The health budget rises to Rs. 326.5 billion, including Rs. 146.9 billion in grants for medical institutions. Key allocations include Rs. 19 billion for SIUT, Rs. 16.5 billion for PPHI, and Rs. 10 billion for a new hospital in Larkana. Expanded mobile diagnostics and ambulance services will serve rural communities.
Urban and Rural Infrastructure
Rs. 520 billion is earmarked for development. Karachi will see road upgrades, water supply improvements, and 50 new electric buses, with 100 more arriving by August 2025. However The Karachi Safe City project will expand AI-based CCTV coverage.
Support for Agriculture and Vulnerable Groups
The new Benazir Hari Card will aid 200,000 farmers.
Digital Reforms and Economic Goals
Reforms include a blockchain-based land record system and a central KPI dashboard for real-time governance. The budget prioritizes sustainable development, digital transformation, In conclusion and inclusive growth laying the foundation for a more resilient Sindh.
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