Punjab has unveiled a zero-tax budget worth Rs5.35 trillion for the fiscal year 2025–26. Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman presented the budget in the provincial assembly, calling it “people-friendly” and aligned with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision. Despite opposition protests, the government emphasized transparency, development, and public welfare.
Largest Development Programme in Punjab’s History
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced a 47% increase in the Annual Development Programme (ADP), raising it from Rs842 billion to Rs1,240 billion. She said the plan includes 100 innovative projects, 94 public initiatives, and the construction or expansion of 12,000 km of roads—700 of which are already underway.
“This is Punjab’s largest development budget, and we achieved it without introducing new taxes,” she stated. Instead of raising taxes, the province will focus on expanding the tax base. Maryam Nawaz also expressed dissatisfaction with the Punjab Revenue Authority’s current performance, urging reforms for better collection.
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Commitment to Health, Education, and Jobs
The budget allocates significant funds for healthcare and education. The government pledged to provide free medicines and improve public school infrastructure. The minimum wage has been raised to Rs40,000, and the chief minister stressed the need for digitizing wage systems to enhance transparency.
Maryam praised the role of her team, including the senior minister and chief secretary, and noted her father Nawaz Sharif had commended the cabinet’s work. She stated that Punjab declared an “emergency” and delivered, achieving a Rs740 billion budget surplus while meeting IMF requirements.
Reduced Borrowing and Fiscal Discipline
The chief minister revealed that the province reduced local borrowing by 94% and kept operational costs under control, with only a 3% rise in expenses despite salary and pension increases. A performance-based bonus system for civil servants is also under consideration.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb called the budget a “historic and strategic shift,” applauding the chief minister’s “fearless and reformist leadership.”
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