Lahore: Punjab Finance Minister Shuja-ur-Rehman has presented a provincial budget exceeding Rs. 5,903 billion, proposing a 7 percent increase in salaries for government employees and a 3.5 percent rise in pensions.

The budget, approved earlier by the Punjab cabinet, outlines major allocations for development, education, health, and social welfare sectors.

According to the budget document, the government has set an income target of Rs. 1,209 billion for the province. A total of Rs. 752 billion has been allocated for development projects, while Rs. 750 billion has been earmarked for the education sector.

In addition, Rs. 27 billion has been allocated for the laptop scheme, and Rs. 15 billion for the Honhaar Scholarship Program aimed at supporting talented students.

The health sector has been allocated 10 percent of the total provincial budget, with officials stating that efforts will be made to improve healthcare delivery and expand services across Punjab.

Finance Minister Shuja-ur-Rehman said the government is committed to promoting digital services and modern education across the province to improve efficiency and access for citizens.

Following the presentation of the budget, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that Punjab has contributed the largest share in federal responsibilities, including defence-related expenditures.

She added that there would be no compromise on the province’s development agenda, emphasizing that public relief and development initiatives would continue at the same pace as before.

The budget is now expected to be debated in the provincial assembly before final approval.