LAHORE – Punjab government on Monday announced a new minimum monthly wage of Rs40,000 for workers across the region, effective from July 1, 2025 for welfare of workers and to ensure fair compensation across all sectors.
Previously set at Rs37,000, the minimum wage has now been raised to Rs40,000 per month, with provincial government stressing need to ensure timely and full payment for all workers, especially daily wage unskilled laborers.
CM Maryam Nawaz said protecting the rights of every worker in Punjab is basic responsibility of state. We have made this increase part of the current provincial budget and are committed to enforcing it strictly.” She also directed all stakeholders to be immediately involved in the implementation process to guarantee that the new wage standards are followed without delay.
Highlighting labor welfare, the Chief Minister expressed concern over workers not receiving their full wages and the absence of labor law protections for domestic workers. She urged strict adherence to workplace SOPs and labor regulations to ensure safe and fair working conditions.
This wage increase marks a significant step by the Punjab government toward enhancing the livelihoods of millions of workers across the province, reflecting its commitment to social justice and economic uplift.
Punjab Budget 2025
Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman presented a record Rs5.3 trillion budget for 2025-26, featuring the highest-ever development allocation of Rs1,240 billion—a 47% increase from last year. Despite protests from the opposition, the budget includes a 10% salary hike for government employees and a 5-7% pension increase.
Key allocations include Rs764 billion for local governments, Rs631 billion for health, Rs661 billion for education, and Rs310 billion for electric buses. The government expects Rs4,062 billion in federal transfers and Rs97.9 billion from foreign funding and loans. The budget also emphasizes fiscal discipline under the federal-IMF framework with an EPS allocation of Rs740 billion.
Political notes included condemnation of Israeli actions in Gaza and highlighting diplomatic successes with India. Major infrastructure and social sector projects are planned, aiming to boost development and public services in Punjab.
https://pakobserver.net/salaries-up-10-pensions-raised-by-7-in-punjab-budget-2025/
