Gilgit: The Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly has approved the provincial budget of Rs. 148 billion, 63 crore, and 20 lakh for the fiscal year 2025–26. The budget was passed with a majority vote during a session chaired by Honorable Speaker Nazir Ahmad Advocate.
During the session, assembly members held detailed discussions on the budget proposals and presented key suggestions regarding public welfare and development. The new fiscal year’s budget allocates Rs. 88.19 billion for non-developmental expenditures and Rs. 37 billion for developmental projects.
A 10% increase in the salaries of government employees, along with approvals for various allowances, has also been granted. Gilgit-Baltistan’s inclusion in federal-level projects has been ensured, with Rs. 11 billion allocated under the Federal PSDP and Rs. 4 billion earmarked for the Prime Minister’s Program.
In view of public relief, Rs. 20 billion have been allocated for wheat subsidy, while the non-tax revenue target has been set at Rs. 7.89 billion.
The budget places special emphasis on the sectors of education and health. Rs. 1.47 billion have been allocated for education and Rs. 1.25 billion for health, including Rs. 620 million proposed for the Health Endowment Fund.
Additionally, Rs. 350 million have been allocated for agriculture, livestock, and fisheries, Rs. 90 million for the promotion of tourism, and Rs. 100 million for the development of the information technology sector.
At the conclusion of the budget session, the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan Haji Gulbar Khan addressed the house and termed the budget “people-friendly” and “historic.” He stated that despite limited financial resources, comprehensive steps have been taken to provide relief to all segments of society and resolve regional issues.
The Speaker of the Assembly thanked all members, the Assembly Secretariat, media representatives, and relevant institutions for their vital role in the successful conduct of the budget session.
