Punjab’s budget for the next fiscal year, totaling Rs5.33 trillion, including a development program of Rs1.24 trillion, seems to follow the familiar playbook of the PML-N, prioritizing image-building over substantial governance and social impact. Despite the increased allocation for development, which is 47% higher than the previous year, the budget lacks a strategy for effective monitoring and implementation of development schemes. Moreover, it does not include an independent socioeconomic impact assessment or audit of past expenditures.
The development stimulus is substantial, with a focus on transformational planning, equity, innovation, and climate resilience. However, the allocation of funds raises questions about the government’s priorities. The social sector has emerged as a major beneficiary, receiving 40% of the development funds, while infrastructure development gets a 27% share. The production sector and governance sector have been allocated 13% and 11%, respectively.
A closer look at the budget reveals that it prioritizes short-term optics over long-term reforms and devolution of governance. The government’s approach to development seems to be focused on flashy infrastructure projects and politically convenient handouts, rather than meaningful governance and social impact. The lack of a comprehensive strategy for monitoring and evaluating the impact of development projects is a significant oversight.
The PML-N’s spending priorities are evident in the budget, with a focus on stimulus, public services, and growth. However, the underlying philosophy seems to be driven by short-term political gains rather than long-term reforms. It is likely that the government will embark on a publicity drive to showcase its development initiatives, which may be mistaken for actual social impact outcomes.
The people of Punjab deserve better governance and more effective development initiatives. A budget that prioritizes socioeconomic impact and governance reforms is essential for achieving meaningful development outcomes. Unfortunately, this budget seems to be more focused on projecting the chief minister as a reformer and champion of development rather than delivering tangible results.
In conclusion, while the budget has increased allocations for various sectors, including education and health, it lacks a comprehensive strategy for achieving meaningful governance and social impact. The government needs to prioritize long-term reforms and devolution of governance to ensure that development initiatives are effective and sustainable.
