The 31st meeting of the Punjab Cabinet convened today at the Chief Minister's Office, presided over by Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi. The session saw the green light for the Punjab government's budget covering the upcoming four months from November 2023 to February 2024. The approved budget totals a substantial 2076.2 billion rupees, including a development expenditure of Rs 351 billion.
During the meeting, a significant allocation of 50 billion rupees was sanctioned to provide relief to the residents of the province. Additionally, substantial allotments were made towards crucial sectors; the health sector received an allocation of 208 billion rupees, while the education sector secured 222 billion rupees. Further, 10 billion rupees have been set aside for the advancement of the agricultural sector.
The Cabinet also committed Rs 1 billion 80 crore for the National Health Support Program, along with an allocation of Rs 5 billion for Punjab textbooks. In a move addressing climate change challenges, 7 billion 30 crore rupees were earmarked for necessary initiatives.
The Finance Secretary delivered a comprehensive briefing on the salient features of the forthcoming four-month budget, elucidating on the robust financial standing and surplus resources of the Punjab government. Notably, it was emphasized that the budget maintains a surplus rather than a deficit.
A significant milestone was achieved with the Cabinet's approval of implementing a minimum wage of Rs 32 thousand for workers effective from July 1, 2023. The meeting also placed a strong emphasis on anti-smog measures, particularly in areas including Sheikhupura, Sahiwal, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Lahore, and Kasur. Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi urged a zero-tolerance approach towards violations of these measures, directing Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners to rigorously enforce regulations on smoke-emitting vehicles and brick kilns.
Stringent measures were advised for ongoing construction projects, emphasizing regular sprinkling of water, and a strict prohibition on crop residue burning. The Punjab Price Control for Essential Commodities Ordinance 2023 also received Cabinet approval.
The Punjab Cabinet extended commendation to Finance Secretary Mujahid Sher Dil and his team for their meticulous preparation of the four-month budget. The meeting saw attendance from Provincial Ministers, Advisors, Chief Secretary, Inspector General Police, Advocate General Punjab, Chairman Planning and Development Board, Secretaries, and senior Officers.