Islamabad: The National Assembly commenced an extensive discussion on the Federal Budget for the upcoming financial year, focusing on various sectors and economic strategies.
According to Radio Pakistan, the debate was initiated by Opposition Leader Omar Ayub Khan, who advocated for the exemption of the Information Technology (IT) sector from taxation to enhance its export capacity and stimulate economic growth. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhary highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering an investment-friendly environment, mentioning ongoing reforms aimed at sustainable development. He noted that the budget includes provisions for the development of Balochistan and promised to incorporate constructive suggestions from both members and the opposition.
Raja Pervaiz Ashraf praised the current government for making tough political decisions to stabilize the economy, urging recognition of these efforts. Syed Hafeezuddin called for an expanded tax net and stringent measures against smuggling, while Samina Khalid Ghurki emphasized support for small farmers to bolster the agriculture sector. Jamshed Dasti raised concerns about water issues in the Seraiki area and advocated for the establishment of a university there.
In his remarks, Sheikh Aftab Ahmad expressed confidence in the government’s economic direction, while Syed Waseem Hussain proposed a fifty percent increase in government employees’ salaries and the removal of taxes on solar panels and food items to alleviate the public’s financial burden. The Minister of State for Law and Justice defended the budget as the best possible under the circumstances and criticized the opposition for not engaging constructively in the debate.
Yousaf Khan urged the government to provide comprehensive public relief and boost employment opportunities, whereas Shahida Rehmani suggested raising the minimum wage to between forty and forty-five thousand rupees. Fazal Muhammad opposed taxes on solar panels and small vehicles, signaling potential areas of contention.
The session concluded with the announcement that the House would reconvene the following day at eleven am.