Rs4b to be allocated in budget for farmers’ welfare: minister

LAHORE:The Punjab government is set to announce a series of strategic initiatives in the upcoming budget to empower farmers, labourers, and students.

Key measures include salary increments for employees, deployment of solar systems to reduce electricity expenses, and provision of complimentary electricity units. The phased rollout will offer 100 free units initially, followed by 200 units and 300 units in subsequent phases. Additionally, a substantial allocation of Rs4 billion will be dedicated to supporting farmers, alongside addressing the legitimate demands of labour unions. Efforts to stimulate employment opportunities and mitigate inflation will also be prioritised, alongside the introduction of an enhanced municipal service system.

These developments were unveiled by Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman during his address at the Labour Convention organised by Labour Municipal Corporation. Minister Shuja-ur-Rehman underscored the government's unwavering commitment to prioritise the welfare of citizens, including government employees, labourers, and those in need. He highlighted the proactive implementation of the Ramazan Relief Package initiated by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, providing essential rations to 6.5 million households without discrimination. Notably, the government has also reduced the price of flour by up to Rs40 per kilo, in addition to adjustments in the prices of bread and naan, with stringent market inspections to ensure compliance. Under the astute leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the province has witnessed positive economic trends, with reports from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank confirming a decrease in inflation rates by 4 to 5 per cent across federal and provincial governments.

Minister Shuja-ur-Rehman criticised previous claims of fiscal prudence, highlighting a historical increase in borrowing over the past 70 years, resulting in unemployment. He assured that the government, whenever in power, is committed to addressing the needs of its citizens. Reflecting on his political journey, Minister Shuja-ur-Rehman shared his humble beginnings from Jinnah Hall as a counselor to his current position as a provincial minister, attributing his success to a dedication to public service and the trust bestowed upon him by the leadership.

He pledged to prioritise the resolution of labour union issues. Notable attendees at the convention included MPA Ghazali Butt, Mayor Lahore, Deputy Mayor Chaudhry Bilal, Chairman Labour Union Mahboob Bhatti, and President Munir Taka Khan.