Balochistan Budget 2026-27: government calls it balanced, opposition voices concerns

QUETTA, Jun 18 (APP): The Balochistan Assembly started debate on the provincial budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, with the government describing the budget as balanced and workable, while opposition members raised concerns over development priorities and resource allocation.

The session, chaired by Deputy Speaker Ghazala Gola, opened with Provincial Finance Minister Shoaib Nosherwani presenting the Finance Bill 2026. Both treasury and opposition members shared their views on the budget.

Opposition Leader Younus Zehri stressed the need for the timely completion of ongoing development projects and called for greater federal support in terms of resources and schemes. He urged special focus on education, health, law and order, and employment, while also highlighting the importance of promoting legal trade and job opportunities in border areas.

Former Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch emphasized equitable distribution of development benefits among the people of Balochistan. He expressed reservations regarding the NFC Award and federal development projects, while underscoring the importance of good governance and improved law and order.

Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, addressing the House, acknowledged the challenges faced by journalists and media workers in the province. He warned that the closure of media bureaus would negatively impact employment and pledged to raise the issue with the federal government.

Sarfraz Bugti reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to standing with media workers and stressed the need to project Balochistan’s voice effectively at the national level. He also identified unemployment as a major issue, noting that the government is prioritizing job creation, development activities, and welfare projects.

Provincial Education Minister Raheela Hameed Durrani described the budget as balanced and practical under current financial circumstances. She highlighted reforms in the education sector, school upgradation, and welfare initiatives such as the introduction of green and pink buses.

Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove said that comprehensive measures are being taken to improve law and order, with a 30 percent increase in the health sector budget. He added that the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) is being further strengthened to ensure public safety.

Food Minister Noor Muhammad Dummar emphasized that peace and security remain the foremost challenges for Balochistan, noting that sustainable development is impossible without stability.

Other members, including Zamrak Achakzai, Ali Madad Jattak, Faisal Jamali, and Dastagir Badini, also shared their views, focusing on development projects, fair distribution of resources, employment opportunities, and district-level issues.

The Assembly session was adjourned until 11 a.m. on Friday, June 19.