Khyber Pakhtunkhwa presented its new fiscal year budget amid strong opposition protests and noisy disruptions in the assembly. The session saw lawmakers raising slogans during Chief Minister Sohail Afridi’s speech, while the government proceeded with key financial announcements. The budget includes salary increases, development allocations and sector-wise spending plans.
The provincial government has proposed a 7% increase in salaries and pensions for government employees. It has also recommended raising the minimum wage to Rs45,000, aiming to provide relief amid rising inflation. The chief minister outlined these measures as part of broader social welfare and economic support policies.
Major allocations include Rs334 billion for health and Rs468 billion for education, reflecting strong focus on social sectors. The development program includes Rs519.10 billion for the Annual Development Programme, covering thousands of projects across settled and merged districts. Officials said the plan includes over 2,700 development schemes.
Additional allocations include funding for roads, universities, human capital projects and education initiatives. Free textbooks, school grants, out-of-school children programs, and interest-free student loans are also part of the budget. The government said these measures aim to improve access to education and reduce inequality.
Security, transport and public services also received significant allocations, including Rs191 billion for law and order and Rs7.5 billion for BRT operations. Funds have also been set aside for Rescue 1122 expansion and other infrastructure initiatives. The budget is expected to face further debate as opposition parties continue to protest its presentation.