Sindh CM Presents Rs3.56 Trillion Budget, No New Taxes Proposed
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has presented a Rs3.56 trillion budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, proposing no new taxes and a 7% increase in salaries and pensions. The budget projects a deficit of approximately Rs242 billion against estimated receipts of Rs3.41 trillion. It includes a Rs400 billion development programme and a Rs13.2 billion social protection package, with long-term goals to establish Sindh as a regional hub for trade, finance, technology, and renewable energy.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah presented the provincial budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, amounting to Rs3.56 trillion. The budget outlines estimated receipts of approximately Rs3.41 trillion, resulting in a projected deficit of about Rs242 billion.
The proposed budget includes a 7% increase in salaries and pensions for government employees and suggests no new taxes. Key allocations feature a Rs400 billion development programme and a Rs13.2 billion social protection package. Additionally, the budget incorporates an increase in the minimum wage for workers.
Long-term initiatives within the budget aim to transform Sindh into a regional hub for trade, finance, technology, and renewable energy. Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stated that the government's objectives for the upcoming fiscal year are to maintain fiscal discipline, strengthen public finances, and sustain development momentum during a challenging period.
The budget also addresses the aftermath of the Gul Plaza fire, with the Sindh government approving a relief package of Rs8.45 billion. This package includes compensation of Rs10 million for the family of each deceased victim.
Prior to its presentation, the Sindh cabinet approved the proposed budget in a session chaired by CM Murad Ali Shah. State broadcaster PTV reported that the Chief Minister noted the budget caters to all classes and includes measures to eradicate poverty in the province. The cabinet also reportedly appreciated the development initiatives from the previous fiscal year and reaffirmed its commitment to public service.
The budget presentation session experienced delays due to a protest by lawmakers from the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P). MPA Ali Khurshidi stated that the party was boycotting the session, citing a lack of consultation with the opposition. According to Dawn Pakistan, CM Murad Ali Shah had reviewed the performance of major revenue-generating departments a day earlier, directing them to enhance collection mechanisms and improve fiscal efficiency.
