Punjab Announces Record Development Budget for 2025-26

The Punjab government has revealed an unprecedented allocation of Rs. 1,240 billion for the Annual Development Program (ADP) for the fiscal year 2025-26. This represents a substantial 47.3% surge from the Rs. 842 billion assigned during the previous fiscal cycle.

Budget documents made public this Monday highlight that this ADP is the most extensive in the province’s history, demonstrating the government’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive, and progressive development. Punjab, with a population exceeding 127.7 million, remains a crucial driver of Pakistan’s economy, contributing over 55% to the nation’s GDP, almost 60% of total exports, and approximately 68% of agricultural production. In light of increasing urbanization and growing strain on infrastructure, energy resources, and environmental assets, this ADP is designed as a vital strategy to address these emerging issues.

In accordance with URAAN Pakistan, the 13th National Development Plan, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, the development initiative seeks to foster equality, innovation, and ecological sustainability, with particular emphasis on assisting underserved areas such as South Punjab.

Key Sector Allocations in ADP 2025-26

The ADP 2025-26 emphasizes significant government investments across essential sectors. Noteworthy allocations include:

  • Education: Rs. 148 billion (up from Rs. 82 billion last year)
  • Healthcare: Rs. 182 billion (compared to Rs. 165 billion previously)
  • Agriculture: Rs. 80 billion
  • Urban Development: Rs. 145 billion
  • Roads: Rs. 120 billion
  • Transport: Rs. 85 billion
  • Local Government and Community Development: Rs. 142 billion
  • Irrigation: Rs. 38 billion
  • Planning and Development: Rs. 38 billion
  • Environment and Climate Change: Rs. 15 billion
  • Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries: Rs. 25 billion
  • Tourism and Archaeology: Rs. 28 billion
  • Industries, Commerce and Investment: Rs. 12 billion
  • Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: Rs. 12 billion
  • Water Supply and Sanitation: Rs. 6 billion