Karachi, June 14, 2024 – The Sindh government announced substantial salary increases for its employees in the 2024-25 provincial budget. Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, presenting the budget on Friday, revealed a 30 percent salary hike for employees in BPS-1 to BPS-6, 25 percent for those in BPS-7 to BPS-16, and 22 percent for employees in BPS-17 and above. Additionally, a 15 percent increase in pensions for retired employees is included.
“These increases aim to provide significant relief to our employees, especially those in the non-gazetted category, in light of rising inflation,” Shah stated during his budget speech. The budget also proposes a minimum wage of Rs 37,000 for labor for the fiscal year 2024-25, in alignment with federal government directives.
The budget, amounting to Rs 3.056.27 trillion, marks a 34 percent increase from the previous year’s estimates and focuses on development and social protection. The salary hikes are part of a broader strategy to bolster the financial security of provincial employees and address the economic challenges faced by the working class.
Chief Minister Shah emphasized that the salary increases would significantly benefit employees in the lower pay scales. “This relief is crucial for our non-gazetted staff, helping them cope with the high cost of living and ensuring their salaries meet the minimum wage standard,” he added.
The announcement has been met with positive reactions from government employees, who have been grappling with the effects of inflation and increased living costs. The proposed salary increases and pension hikes are expected to improve the livelihoods of thousands of provincial workers and retirees.
The budget also includes significant allocations for development and social services. Education receives the largest share, with Rs 519 billion allocated, while healthcare is set to receive Rs 300 billion. Local government functions are allocated Rs 329 billion, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving essential services and infrastructure.
In addition to salary and pension increases, the budget outlines various pro-poor initiatives, housing schemes, and subsidies aimed at alleviating the financial burdens on Sindh’s citizens. A total of Rs 34.9 billion is allocated for pro-poor initiatives, and Rs 116 billion is set aside for subsidies to support vulnerable populations.
The 2024-25 Sindh budget reflects a comprehensive approach to economic and social well-being, with significant investments in human capital, infrastructure, and social protection measures. Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah’s announcements underscore the provincial government’s dedication to addressing the needs of its employees and citizens amidst economic challenges.