LAHORE – Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman will present the provincial budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 in the Punjab Assembly today (Monday). The new budget, according to the minister, will reflect the progressive vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, with a strong focus on development, transparency, and social welfare.
Importantly, no new taxes will be introduced this year. Instead, the government aims to improve tax collection from existing sources. Rehman emphasized that better use of provincial assets will help generate more revenue without burdening the public. He stressed that financial reforms would prioritize long-term growth and sustainability.
The finance minister assured that the budget would continue to support key areas such as education, healthcare, and social protection. Programs launched under the chief minister’s leadership will be expanded to reach more people. “This budget has something in store for everyone, from women and children to laborers and people with disabilities,” he said.
Moreover, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will receive both technical and financial support to stimulate business activity. Farmers will benefit from an upgraded Kisan Card program, designed to meet their evolving needs more effectively. These steps aim to strengthen the economic foundation at the grassroots level.
Special focus will also be given to underdeveloped areas, particularly districts in South Punjab. Development projects in these regions are expected to receive priority funding to reduce regional inequalities. The finance minister called it a “people-friendly budget” designed to uplift every segment of society and ensure inclusive progress for all.
With the budget announcement just hours away, all eyes are on the Punjab Assembly to see how the government plans to turn these promises into action.