Azma Bokhari: No Burden on Public in Upcoming Punjab Budget

LAHORE – Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has announced that the upcoming provincial budget for fiscal year 2025–26 will be completely tax-free, offering significant relief for salaried individuals.

Addressing a press conference, Bokhari praised Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, saying the province has achieved major progress in sectors such as cleanliness, education, and public welfare. She confirmed that the budget will be presented on June 16 in the Punjab Assembly.

“This budget is designed to protect the public. The salaried class will be given relief, and no new taxes will be imposed,” she said. Bokhari also revealed that the Chief Minister had rejected multiple tax increase proposals from different departments to avoid burdening citizens.

She emphasised that people outside the tax system must be included to ensure fairness. “With Maryam Nawaz leading the way, Punjab’s citizens will not be pushed into hardship,” Bokhari assured.

Highlighting the success of the “Suthra Punjab” (Clean Punjab) initiative, Bokhari said the cleanliness drive has transformed hygiene standards across the province and set an example for others. “Real change doesn’t need 15 or 16 years; just one year of dedication is enough,” she added.