KARACHI: The Sindh government is set to present its budget for the financial year 2024-25 on Friday. The total volume of the new budget is expected to exceed Rs23.5 trillion, with substantial allocations aimed at employee welfare and development initiatives.
The budget proposals will be reviewed and approved during the provincial cabinet meeting before being presented to the assembly by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah.
Sources indicate that the budget will include a proposed increase of 15% to 20% in the salaries of government employees. Additionally, there is a proposal to set the minimum wage at Rs35,000.
The Annual Development Program (ADP) is another highlight, with a proposed allocation exceeding Rs430 billion. A notable proposal includes an increase of Rs30 billion in the district development program, aimed at enhancing local-level projects and initiatives.
The budget also anticipates the announcement of new recruitments across more than 50,000 positions in various government departments, addressing both employment and administrative efficiency.
In an effort to promote sustainable energy solutions, the budget includes a proposal to provide solar systems to over 200 villages in the first phase. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to improve energy access and promote renewable energy sources in rural areas.
Meanwhile, the PML-N-led Punjab government will present its budget on June 13. The Punjab Assembly Secretariat issued a notification that the provincial budget will be presented on Thursday at 2pm in the 11th session of the assembly.
Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan will preside over the budget session. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has expressed commitment to ensuring equal access to services for every citizen.
