The Sindh cabinet on Friday approved a long-awaited salary increase for government employees across multiple pay scales as part of the provincial Budget 2025–26. The move, which comes amid persistent inflation and economic pressure, reflects the provincial government’s efforts to offer financial relief to public sector workers.According to official details shared during the pre-budget press conference, government employees in grades 1 to 16 will receive a 12% salary increase, while those in grades 17 to 22 will get a 10% raise. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, who also holds the finance portfolio and is set to present the budget in the Sindh Assembly later today.“Despite financial constraints and limited federal support, Sindh is prioritizing its employees and development goals,” said CM Murad Ali Shah during the briefing. He emphasized that the pay raise was a necessary step to ease the burden on government workers struggling with rising living costs.
Sindh Budget 2025–26 to Be Presented Today
The complete Sindh budget 2025–26 will be officially unveiled today at 3 PM in the Sindh Assembly, Karachi. This year’s budget will focus heavily on social services, employment, infrastructure development, and regional equity.
The salary hikes are part of a larger framework intended to boost morale among public sector employees and maintain governance stability in the province. The Sindh cabinet approved the measure after reviewing macroeconomic challenges, inflation trends, and employee demands raised over the past fiscal year.
Annual Development Program and Sector-Wise Highlights
As part of its broader financial planning, the Sindh government has proposed an increase in the Annual Development Program (ADP) from Rs493 billion to Rs503 billion for FY 2025–26. This enhanced development budget aims to expand infrastructure, social protection, and economic opportunities across the province.
Key allocations include:
- Rs183 billion earmarked for new development schemes.
- Rs45 billion for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) fund, benefiting MNAs and MPAs.
- Rs7 billion development package for each divisional headquarters city.
Sector-specific proposals have also been revealed. The education sector’s development budget is set to increase from Rs32 billion to Rs38 billion, while the health sector allocation may rise from Rs18 billion to Rs21 billion.
Salary Hike in Line with Fiscal Justice
Murad Ali Shah underlined that the salary raise aligns with the province’s strategy to protect public servants and their families from the financial strain caused by price hikes and fuel adjustments. “This is not just a numbers game; this is about protecting livelihoods and rewarding service,” he added.
In addition to the salary revision, the government also hinted at recruitment plans in various departments, particularly in education, healthcare, and administrative services, to improve governance and service delivery.
Final Note
With the Sindh Budget 2025–26 set to be presented later today, the employee salary hike is expected to be one of the most positively received components of the financial plan. The provincial government’s focus on development and social welfare, combined with targeted relief measures, could play a key role in navigating economic uncertainty over the coming year.
