Balochistan focuses on education, health

Finance minister says health sector has witnessed a substantial 45 per cent budgetary increase

 QUETTA:

Balochistan Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani on Saturday said the provincial budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year was equitable in terms of development projects across all divisions of the province with special focus on education and health.

During his detailed briefing, he was accompanied by Planning and Development head Zahoor Ahmed Buledi. Nosherwani highlighted the budget’s strategic allocations aimed at addressing longstanding challenges and enhancing public welfare.

Reflecting on the budget’s objectives, Nosherwani underscored the government’s commitment to equal distribution of resources among all areas of Balochistan to ensure comprehensive growth and development.

“This budget marks a significant step towards prioritizing education, health, and climate change initiatives,” he stated.

A noteworthy feature of the development budget is the allocation of 100 per cent of funds for projects costing up to Rs100 million, aimed at promoting local infrastructure and accelerating community-oriented projects.

Addressing concerns over Balochistan’s development deficit, Nosherwani reaffirmed the government’s resolve to utilize all available resources effectively to uplift the standard of living for residents across the province.

He dismissed claims of misallocated funds, emphasizing stringent financial oversight and accountability measures.

In an effort to resolve electricity challenges faced by landlords, meetings were convened with Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif, who lauded Balochistan’s transition of tube-wells to solar power, pledging federal support for sustainable energy initiatives.

Education emerged as a focal point, with over Rs26 billion allocated to bolster school infrastructure and an additional Rs2 billion earmarked for initiatives targeting out-of-school children, he said.

The health sector witnessed a substantial 45 per cent increase in funding, with Rs23 billion allocated to new projects aimed at improving healthcare services.