The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has presented a historic and people-friendly budget with a strong emphasis on public welfare, health, education, and police reforms. Information and Public Relations Minister Shafi Jan, addressing a post-budget press conference alongside Advisor to the Chief Minister on Finance Muzammil Aslam, claimed the budget surpasses allocations made by the federal government and other provinces. The budget, prepared under the leadership of Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, prioritizes improved service delivery for citizens.
Substantial Allocations for Public Services
Shafi Jan stated, "Substantial allocations have been made for health, education, police, and other public service sectors." He highlighted that the budget includes significant funding for these areas, aiming to enhance the quality of life for residents of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
Journalist Welfare Package
A key feature of the budget is the allocation of Rs1,000 million for journalists' welfare, professional development opportunities, scholarships for their children, and internship programmes. This includes Rs300 million specifically for the merged districts. Additionally, Rs500 million has been set aside for conducting feasibility studies and preparing designs for media colonies for journalists. The government has also allocated Rs150 million for the construction of a new building with modern facilities for the Peshawar Press Club.
Political Conditions and Demands
Commenting on political matters, Shafi Jan made it clear that the K-P government would not release any grant to the federal government until former Prime Minister Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi are shifted to Al-Shifa Hospital and provided access to television, newspapers, and other facilities in accordance with the Constitution and law. He maintained that a meeting between Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and Imran Khan is the Chief Minister's legitimate right. Leaders of other political parties were also consulted during the budget-making process, he noted.
Urgent Funding for Merged Districts
Shafi Jan demanded the restoration of meetings with Imran Khan and urged the authorities to facilitate an early meeting between the PTI founder and the K-P Chief Minister. He further stressed that the merged tribal districts urgently require Rs300 billion in funding. The budget reflects the government's commitment to addressing the needs of these regions, which have historically faced underdevelopment.
