The government has proposed a substantial increase in social sector spending in the upcoming fiscal year, earmarking Rs187.2 billion to support poverty alleviation and sustainable development initiatives under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework.

According to budget proposals, Rs70 billion has been allocated for the SDGs Achievement Programme aimed at improving the welfare of poor and marginalised communities across the country.

The proposed social sector allocation has been increased to Rs187 billion from the current fiscal year’s Rs147 billion.

A total of Rs78.5 billion has been proposed for the education sector and the Higher Education Commission (HEC). To support underprivileged students nationwide, Rs3 billion has been earmarked for the Pakistan Education Endowment Fund to provide educational scholarships.