Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah presented a budget of Rs2.2 trillion for the fiscal year 2023-24, with a strong emphasis on the rehabilitation of flood-affected people. The budget allocates a development outlay of Rs700.1 billion, primarily targeting flood rehabilitation and social protection for the poor. CM Murad highlighted the additional burden faced by the province due to natural disasters and floods.
Development Outlay: Rs700.1 Billion for Key Initiatives
The budget’s development outlay of Rs700.1 billion will be directed towards various key initiatives. These initiatives aim to address the needs of flood-affected individuals and promote social protection measures. The funds will be utilized for infrastructure restoration, including roads and agriculture, and other crucial developmental projects.
Enhanced Budget for School Education: Focus on Educational Sector Development
The budget for school education has been increased by 13.1% to Rs267.6 billion. This boost in funding demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving the educational sector. The budget also includes Chinese grants of Rs7.6 billion for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of 646 schools, ensuring better educational facilities for the students.
Investments in Repair, Rehabilitation, and Construction of Schools
The budget allocates funds for the repair, rehabilitation, and construction of schools affected by rain and floods. With an estimated cost of Rs4.41 billion, 46 schemes are dedicated to the repair and rehabilitation of existing schools damaged by rain, while 45 schemes aim to construct or reconstruct schools affected by floods, costing Rs4.49 billion. These investments will enhance the infrastructure and provide a conducive learning environment for students.
Partnership with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for Flood Response
A proposed scheme, "Programme for Flood Response Through Reconstruction Of Education Facilities in Sindh,” in partnership with JICA, aims to address the educational needs in flood-affected districts. The government of Sindh has proposed a budget of Rs142.4 million, with JICA’s estimated share of Rs1.42 billion. This collaboration will contribute to the reconstruction of education facilities and promote educational development in the region.
Allocation for Subsidized Wheat Supply: Ensuring Food Security
To ensure a consistent supply of subsidized wheat and affordable wheat flour to the public, the budget allocates Rs63 billion. This allocation aims to stabilize wheat prices, support food security, and alleviate the financial burden on the general public.
Budgetary Provision for Poor Social Protection and Economic Sustainability
The budget includes a provision of Rs16.9 billion for the Poor Social Protection and Economic Sustainability Programme. This initiative aims to uplift marginalized communities and provide them with social protection measures, promoting economic sustainability and improving living standards.
Increased Grant to Local Councils: Strengthening Grassroots Governance
The budget includes an increased grant of Rs88 billion to local councils, signifying a 4.8% growth. This allocation aims to strengthen grassroots governance and empower local authorities to address community-specific issues effectively.
Focus on Transport and Energy: Promoting Infrastructure Development
Significant investments have been made in the transport and energy sectors. The transport budget has witnessed an impressive growth rate of 167.8%, amounting to Rs13.4 billion. The energy sector budget has also increased by 57.8%, reaching Rs47.9 billion. These investments will drive infrastructure development, improve transportation systems, and enhance energy generation and distribution.
Health Budget Boost: Enhancing Healthcare Services
The budget has allocated Rs227.8 billion for the health sector, denoting a 10.1% growth. This increased funding will strengthen healthcare services, expand medical facilities, and ensure better access to quality healthcare for the people of Sindh.
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Projects Underway: Improving Public Transportation
The government is implementing the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project at a cost of Rs2.36 billion. Additionally, the Red Line project will receive a development expenditure of Rs78.38 billion. These initiatives aim to improve public transportation, reduce traffic congestion, and provide efficient and comfortable commuting options for the residents.
Investments in Irrigation System: Enhancing Water Management
Sindh, known for its extensive irrigation system, will receive investments to improve water management. The budget has allocated a significant amount of Rs25.703 billion for silt clearance, overall repair and maintenance of the irrigation system, and the Salinity Control and Reclamation Program (SCARP). These investments will contribute to better water resource management and agricultural productivity.
Focus on Law and Order: Allocated Funds for Security
The budget has carefully allocated funds to address the law and order situation in the province. A total of Rs143.568 billion has been earmarked for this purpose, ensuring adequate resources for maintaining security and safeguarding the well-being of the citizens.
Budget for Women Development & Empowerment Department: Promoting Gender Equality
The Women Development & Empowerment department has a budget of Rs705.983 million, reflecting the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women. This allocation will support initiatives and programs aimed at uplifting women, enhancing their participation in society, and addressing their specific needs.
