The Punjab government is scheduled to present its budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 today, with total proposed expenditures surpassing Rs5.13 trillion. The budget will be introduced in the Punjab Assembly following a session called by the Governor of Punjab specifically for this purpose.
Budget projections indicate that Punjab will receive Rs3.79 trillion from the federal divisible pool under the National Finance Commission (NFC) award, while provincial revenue is expected to generate approximately Rs1.33 trillion during the upcoming fiscal year.
In a significant development, the province’s development program is anticipated to be considerably scaled back due to a fiscal concession granted to the federal government. Punjab has reportedly provided fiscal space amounting to Rs570 billion to support the center’s financial needs, leading to a proposed reduction of the annual development budget from Rs1.45 trillion to Rs752 billion.
The budget session has been set for 2pm, with the agenda already distributed. Members of the provincial assembly will receive budget documents and related materials in digital format, reflecting efforts to modernize legislative procedures.
A large share of the budget is expected to be dedicated to salaries and pensions of government employees, with Rs650 billion allocated for salaries and Rs505.8 billion for pension payments.
The health sector is projected to receive Rs680 billion, underscoring the government’s prioritization of healthcare. This includes Rs100 billion earmarked for the provision of free medicines across public health facilities. Additionally, special funds are planned for the treatment and medication of cancer and stroke patients, aiming to enhance access to specialized healthcare services.
Education is also a key focus, with more than Rs900 billion proposed for the sector. Initiatives under consideration include programs to provide laptops, electric scooters, and bicycles to students to support education and improve mobility. The government is also contemplating an allocation of Rs20 billion for the Honhaar Scholarship Programme, which offers financial aid to talented students pursuing higher education.
Meanwhile, several welfare and public service programs are expected to receive substantial funding. The Suthra Punjab Programme is proposed to receive Rs150 billion, while Rs25 billion may be allocated for social protection initiatives. The budget also includes Rs35 billion for a Ramazan relief package and over Rs80 billion for various subsidy schemes aimed at assisting consumers and vulnerable groups in society.
