ISLAMABAD: The Balochistan government has raised its budget surplus for the fiscal year 2025–26 to Rs51.5 billion after revising allocations and enforcing austerity across departments.
This was announced by Provincial Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani during a post-budget press briefing in Quetta.
He was joined by Senior Minister for Planning and Development Mir Zahoor Buledi and other top officials.
Initially, a surplus of Rs36 billion was presented in the provincial assembly, but post-review, the amount was increased.
The adjustment reflects efficient financial planning and cutbacks in non-development spending.
Focus on Development and Law & Order
The total size of the Balochistan budget is now estimated at Rs1028 billion.
This includes Rs801 billion in federal transfers, Rs101 billion from provincial receipts, and Rs37.8 billion from foreign-funded project assistance.
Additional revenues include Rs24 billion from the Sui gas lease extension bonus and Rs26 billion in cash carry forward.
The government has allocated Rs81 billion to improve law and order, reinforcing its commitment to regional security.
Minister Nosherwani confirmed increased investment in public safety and welfare infrastructure.
Strengthening Local Governance and Job Creation
A total of Rs80 billion will be directly transferred to local governments at the district and union council levels.
The provincial development portfolio (PSDP) has been expanded to fund 6,183 schemes, with 3,633 ongoing and 2,550 new projects.
An amount of Rs23 billion is earmarked to enhance District Coordination Committees (DCC), and Rs500 million has been set aside for the Balochistan Climate Change Fund.
The provincial government also aims to generate employment, creating 4,188 contract-based and 1,958 regular jobs in key sectors.
A revenue target of Rs124 billion has been fixed, with education, health, climate resilience, and law enforcement as major priorities.
