Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced that the province’s budget for the current fiscal year is 34% higher than the previous year, highlighting a significant increase in the development budget.

Addressing a post-budget press conference, he said that Sindh’s development allocation surpasses that of other provinces, with efforts underway to cooperate with the federal government in terms of GDP growth.

The Sindh CM said that total budget for Sindh stands at Rs 3,560 billion, with a challenging growth rate target. He pointed out that 31% of the budget is dedicated to development projects, urging the federal government to consider Sindh for development schemes, especially those halted by the caretaker government.

Shah explained that the suspension of development schemes included in the caretaker government’s budget has caused delays, compounded by inflation-driven cost increases.

“The current budget prioritises the rehabilitation of flood victims, with a focus on completing ongoing projects rather than initiating new ones,” he said. However, he assured that growth would still occur within the year.

Out of the total budget, Rs 1,912 billion is allocated for current revenue expenditure, Rs 184 billion for capital expenditure, and over Rs 1,000 billion for development in the next financial year. A major portion of the current revenue expenditure, 70%, is earmarked for salaries, including 38% for current salaries and 14% for pensions and other grants.

The Sindh CM further revealed that Sindh expects Rs 1,900 billion from the federal government, with Rs 619 billion allocated for tax revenue and Rs 43 billion for non-tax revenue. Additionally, around Rs 27.5 billion is projected from current capital receipts, with foreign assistance projects bridging any gaps.

The Chief Minister said the provincial government also announced salary increases for government employees. The minimum wage is proposed to be Rs 37,000. Employees in grades 1 to 6 will receive a 30% pay hike, while those in grades 7 and above will see an increase beyond Rs 37,000. Salaries for grades 6 to 16 will rise by 25%, and grades 17 to 22 will see a 22% increase.