The Balochistan Assembly approved a Rs896 billion budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, achieving unanimous support despite initial resistance with 11 cut motions from opposition members. Provincial Finance and Minerals Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani submitted 94 grant demands exceeding Rs1 trillion, covering Rs666.83 billion for non-development expenditures and Rs289.64 billion for the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP).
Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti announced a Rs75 billion reform and development package aimed at governance enhancement, law and order, public service improvements, and PSDP reforms. Key initiatives include reopening 164 non-functional health centers, constructing 1,200 schools, launching a “People’s Air Ambulance Service,” and introducing a Rs10 billion Safe City Project.
Read more: Balochistan Assembly approves Rs81.5bn supplementary budget
Infrastructure plans include new vegetable markets, livestock centers, bus terminals, and a train service in Quetta. Meanwhile, Rs6 billion was allocated for satellite mapping for land settlement, Rs5 billion for solar energy in Chagai, and Rs4 billion for irrigation upgrades.
The government also emphasized economic development by positioning Chagai as an investment hub with support from countries like Saudi Arabia and China, along with plans for industrial estates and a solar grid. Meat packaging plants in Chaman, Gwadar, Turbat, and Chagai will boost exports, while pink scooters for women and entrepreneurship opportunities aim to empower individuals.
Security improvements are prioritized with Rs20 billion for the Counter-Terrorism Department, boundary walls for 100 police stations, and better prosecution processes. Cultural programs received a Rs2 billion allocation.
Chief Minister Bugti pledged to fully utilize the current budget and start new projects immediately while addressing separatist challenges with a strong commitment to protecting the province’s integrity.
