The Punjab provincial cabinet has approved a budget of Rs 5,903 billion for the financial year 2026–27, along with salary and pension increases for government employees.
The meeting was chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman gave a detailed briefing on the budget proposals, allocations, and financial priorities.
Under the new budget, government employees will receive a 7 percent increase in salaries, while pensions will be raised by 3.5 percent.
The cabinet has also allocated Rs 752 billion for development projects, focusing on infrastructure and public services despite financial pressure from the federal revenue-sharing system.
Senior provincial ministers, the Chief Secretary, Chairman P&D, Finance Secretary, and other senior officials attended the meeting and took part in discussions.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said this is her third consecutive budget and highlighted Punjab’s major contribution to national defence and other federal expenses. She added that despite receiving a reduced share under the NFC award, the province is still committed to public relief and development using its own resources.
She also noted that she continued to chair meetings through video link even while unwell, showing her commitment to completing government work without delay.
