QUETTA – Balochistan government rolled out Rs1.089 trillion surplus budget for fiscal year 2026–27, announcing 7% increase in salaries and pensions, the creation of 5,000 new government jobs, and a series of relief measures aimed at supporting citizens without imposing any new taxes.
With projected surplus of Rs45.66 billion, financial plan focuses on job creation, social sector investment and tax relief while avoiding any new taxation measures.
Salaries, Pensions Increment
One of the biggest announcements is a 7% increase in salaries and pensions for government employees and retirees. The move aligns with the relief measures introduced by the federal government and is expected to provide some cushion against rising living costs.
New Government Jobs
The government announced 5,000 new positions across various departments. The measure is aimed at addressing unemployment and improving service delivery in key sectors.
Rs45.66 Billion Budget Surplus
Despite economic challenges, the province expects total receipts of Rs1.135 trillion against expenditures of Rs1.089 trillion, resulting in a projected surplus of Rs45.66 billion. Officials say the surplus reflects improved fiscal management and revenue planning.
Record Development Funds
Finance Minister Shoaib Nosherwani claimed the province achieved the highest development budget utilization in its history during the outgoing fiscal year, spending 115% of allocated development funds. The government says this performance has laid the foundation for a more ambitious development agenda.
Health Sector
Healthcare remains a major priority, with Rs96 billion allocated to the sector. The budget includes Rs6 billion for development projects and Rs90 billion for operational expenditures. Funding for the Balochistan Health Card Programme has also been increased by Rs1.5 billion to expand healthcare access.
Education
The education sector has secured one of the largest allocations in the budget. School education will receive Rs127 billion, while higher and technical education has been allocated Rs31 billion. Additional funding includes Rs2.82 billion for the Balochistan Education Support Fund and Rs54 million for the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Scholarship Programme.
No New Taxes
In a significant relief measure, the government has refrained from introducing any new taxes. Officials say the decision is intended to protect citizens and businesses from additional financial burdens amid ongoing economic pressures.
Property Transfer Costs
The government has abolished the Capital Value Tax and reduced stamp duty on property transfers from 2% to 1%, a move expected to encourage investment and activity in the real estate sector.
Support for Women Entrepreneurs
The budget introduces interest-free loan schemes for women, aiming to promote entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and economic empowerment across the province.
Development Programmes
Provincial Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) has been allocated Rs206.61 billion. In addition, Rs44.56 billion has been earmarked for federal development projects and Rs40.38 billion for foreign-funded schemes, underscoring the government’s focus on infrastructure and public service delivery.
Agriculture and Social Welfare in Focus
The agriculture sector is set to receive Rs23.6 billion, while educational services will continue to enjoy a zero sales tax rate. These measures are aimed at supporting farmers, students and low-income families.
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