Sindh Food Minister Makhdoom Mehboob Zaman on Tuesday declared that the provincial government has presented a balanced, people-friendly, and development-oriented budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, despite challenging economic conditions. Speaking during the budget debate in the Sindh Assembly, he emphasized that the budget prioritizes public welfare, economic stability, social protection, and sustainable growth.
No New Taxes and Increased Salaries
Mehboob Zaman highlighted that no new taxes have been imposed in the budget. Instead, the government has increased salaries, pensions, and minimum wages, reflecting its commitment to providing relief to the people. He stated that substantial funds are being allocated for development projects across the province, from Karachi to Kashmore and from Thar to Sukkur, with historic investments in education, health, infrastructure, and public service sectors.
Ensuring Benefits Reach Every Citizen
The minister asserted that the government’s foremost priority is to ensure that the benefits of development and prosperity reach every citizen of Sindh. He noted that Sindh remains the hub of Pakistan’s economy, energy, and trade, and therefore its constitutional and financial rights—including the NFC Award and gas royalty—must be ensured in accordance with the Constitution and principles of justice.
Reforms in the Food Sector
Highlighting reforms in the food sector, Mehboob Zaman announced that for the first time, wheat procurement was carried out directly from Hari Card holders. He claimed that not a single complaint was received throughout the process. Payments were made directly to farmers through Sindh Bank, ensuring transparency and strengthening confidence in the procurement system. Additionally, the traditional Bardana procurement system was abolished for the first time, and its cost was incorporated into the wheat support price.
Digitalization of Food Department
The food minister revealed that complete digitalization of the Food Department is among the government’s top priorities, and a major initiative in this regard will soon be unveiled.
Zero-Tolerance Against Corruption
Speaking about accountability measures, Makhdoom Mehboob Zaman said the department is pursuing a zero-tolerance policy against corruption, embezzlement, and financial irregularities. He informed the house that action has been taken against 100 officers and officials involved in wheat corruption and theft cases. As a result, 20 officers have been dismissed from service, 21 suspended, and show-cause proceedings are underway against 61 others. He added that criminal cases would also be registered against those found involved in corruption.
Other Development Priorities
The minister also called for the completion of the Makhdoom Talib-ul-Moula Medical College project on a priority basis, stressed the need for establishing a Chest Pain Unit in Hala, and emphasized strengthening the Sufism University in Bhit Shah as an important academic and cultural institution.
