‘Budget 2025–26 to reflect public priorities’

LAHORE:Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman has said that the government is committed to prioritising provincial development needs through a balanced approach to revenue generation and public expenditure.

Addressing the pre-budget consultative workshop here on Wednesday for the fiscal year 2025–26, organised by the Punjab Finance Department in collaboration with the FCDO-funded Sub-National Governance (SNG) Programme, he emphasised key reforms that have contributed to improving fiscal governance. He highlighted that digital transformation within the Punjab Revenue Authority and the shift from annual rental value to capital value for urban property assessments have significantly enhanced revenue generation while reducing financial irregularities.

Similarly, pension reforms have helped to manage future financial liabilities more efficiently, while rationalising agricultural subsidies has eliminated billions in circular debt — a significant achievement for the provincial government. The minister further stated that public engagement in budget formulation is an established practice in Punjab. The government has consistently incorporated feedback from past consultations into budget decisions.

‘No segment of society has ever been, nor will ever be, deprived of its fundamental needs under our governance,’ he assured. ‘The Budget 2025–26 will truly reflect the aspirations and priorities of our people.’

‘This workshop is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that the budget-making process is transparent, inclusive, and reflective of the voices of all citizens — especially those traditionally left unheard. The active involvement of civil society, academia, and development partners guarantees that public priorities remain central to our fiscal planning.’

The workshop aimed to foster an inclusive, transparent, and participatory budget-making process. A wide array of stakeholders, including government officials, development partners, civil society, and academia participated in the event.