Education remains key priority in Rs3.56 trillion provincial budget
KARACHI, June 17, 2026 — The Sindh government has allocated Rs25,860.679 million for the education sector under the Annual Development Programme (ADP) 2026-27, accounting for around 6.8% of the total development outlay, according to budget documents presented on Wednesday.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah unveiled a Rs3.562 trillion provincial budget for fiscal year 2026-27, proposing a 7% increase in salaries and pensions while avoiding any new taxes.
The budget projects a fiscal deficit of Rs36.9 billion and sets aside Rs750 billion for development spending, highlighting continued emphasis on infrastructure development, public welfare and economic growth.
Murad Ali Shah presented the budget in the Sindh Assembly for the thirteenth time amid protests by opposition lawmakers, who later staged a walkout.
“No new taxes have been imposed in the budget, reflecting the government’s commitment to providing relief to the public and the business community,” he said.
Education Sector Allocation
Under the ADP 2026-27, the education sector has been allocated Rs25,860.679 million, making it one of the key priorities in Sindh’s development strategy.
Officials said the funding is aimed at improving school infrastructure, expanding access to education and enhancing the overall quality of learning across the province.
Health and Infrastructure Spending
The health sector has been allocated Rs17,433.422 million, representing around 4.6% of the ADP.
Local government projects, including water supply, sanitation and road infrastructure, have received Rs121,663.861 million, accounting for 26.2% of the development programme.
Public health engineering and rural development have been allocated Rs40,860 million, while transport and communication projects stand at Rs39,536 million.
Agriculture and Irrigation Allocations
Agriculture, including livestock, has been allocated Rs6,300 million, while irrigation projects have received Rs30,940 million under the development programme.
Officials said these allocations aim to strengthen rural economies, improve water management and support the agriculture sector.
Budget Overview
The provincial government said the budget has been prepared amid global economic uncertainty, including inflationary pressures, geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions.
The budget will now be debated in the Sindh Assembly before being put to a vote for final approval.
