Qaseem Shah, Ali Hamza:Â
QUETTA, June 21: Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Sunday said the approval of the Balochistan Budget 2026-27 reflects the provincial government’s commitment to improving education, healthcare, governance and public services while continuing efforts to strengthen security across the province.
Addressing the concluding session of the Balochistan Assembly, Bugti said his government had focused on restoring public confidence through merit-based recruitment, institutional reforms and improved service delivery.
The chief minister said nearly 15,000 of the province’s 15,370 schools are now operational, while over 14,000 teachers have been recruited on merit. He added that more than 3,200 schools have been rehabilitated and around 720,000 children enrolled. According to Bugti, the number of out-of-school children has declined by 14%, youth literacy has increased from 49% to 60%, and school dropout rates have also improved.
Highlighting developments in the health sector, he said more than 2,800 healthcare workers were recruited and 4,519 doctors promoted. He added that 164 Basic Health Units have become fully functional, while medicine availability has increased significantly. Bugti also said no new polio case has been reported in Balochistan since November 2024 and vaccination coverage has improved.
On governance reforms, the chief minister said attendance in government offices has increased substantially, the average time required to process official files has fallen from 92 days to 13 days, and development spending reached full utilisation during the fiscal year.
Looking ahead, Bugti announced several projects under the Balochistan Budget 2026-27, including the proposed Quetta People’s Train connecting Sariab and Kuchlak, expansion of fibre-optic connectivity, solar energy projects for remote areas, new Union Council offices and wider telemedicine services. He also announced that a scholarship programme for girls from Balochistan will begin on July 1.
Speaking on security, Bugti said the government remains open to dialogue with political groups that accept the Constitution of Pakistan but ruled out negotiations with militant organisations. He also announced higher compensation packages for the families of martyred security personnel and civilian victims, along with a 10% salary increase for personnel serving in specialised counter-terrorism units.
The chief minister said the government’s priority remains sustainable development, improved governance and lasting peace across Balochistan.
