Punjab Budget 2026–27 brings 7pc Salary Increment for Govt Employees
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LAHORE – Punjab Assembly budget session is underway as the provincial government unveiled fresh financial relief measures for public sector employees and pensioners, announcing 7% increase in salaries and a 3.5% rise in pensions under the new fiscal plan. Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman made the announcement while presenting budget, saying that proposed increases are aimed at easing financial pressure on government employees across the province. The revised pay and pension structure will come into effect after formal budget approval, potentially benefiting thousands of serving staff and retirees. The development closely mirrors the federal government’s earlier budget proposals for the fiscal year 2026–27, which also include a 7% salary increase for federal employees and a 7% hike in pensions for retired personnel. In addition, the federal plan proposes a 10% increase in the minimum wage, signaling broader nationwide efforts to provide economic relief amid rising living costs. Describing the provincial financial plan as a “budget of hope,” Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the government was committed to delivering relief through Punjab’s own resources. She stressed that strengthening internal revenue generation remains a key priority and directed the Punjab Revenue Authority to intensify efforts to improve fiscal capacity. The chief minister expressed confidence that the budget aligns with public expectations and continues the government’s track record of citizen-focused policies. She also praised the collaborative effort behind the budget’s preparation, calling it a product of teamwork and coordinated governance. Maryam Nawaz specifically lauded Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman, Information Minister Azma Zahid Bukhari, Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, Finance Secretary Mujahid Sherdil, and other officials for their role in crafting what she described as a people-friendly financial roadmap. With inflation concer