RAWALPINDI: Punjab Governor Mohammad Balighur Rahman on Saturday asked the government to increase the education budget in the fiscal year 2023-24 as the previous PTI government had neglected this sector.

“The education budget was Rs120 billion in the PML-N government before 2018 which was reduced to Rs60 billion by the previous PTI government.

Apart from education, the next budget will improve in other sectors as well,” he stated this during a visit to “Build Exhibition 2023” organised by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI).

The governor said an increase in exports was the only way to improve the economy. He said the business community had an important role in the development of the economy.

“Every country is known for its business environment. The government of Pakistan has announced barter trade agreements with several countries which will enable Pakistan to engage in mutually beneficial exchanges with these countries,” he said.

He emphasised increasing the tax-to-GDP ratio, adding the government will provide relief to the masses in the upcoming budget.

The governor said it was necessary to be honest and keep promises in politics and running business in a good way. He said there was a lot of emphasis on commitment and loyalty in society and religion.

Talking about price hike of edibles and increased tariffs, Mr Rehman said the government was aware of the problems due to inflation and people would be given relief in the upcoming budget.

He said with the reduction in petrol prices and the strengthening of the rupee against the US dollar, the economy would improve.

The government this month brought down the prices of petroleum products and it is expected that the upcoming budget will bring relief to the people.

The governor condemned the May 9 incidents and said it was a day of national shame, adding the nation was standing united in the defence of its institutions.

“Violent behaviour and hate speech will not be allowed. May 9 is a day of national shame,” he added.

In response to a question, the governor said only those involved in the May 9 incidents are being arrested and will be dealt with according to the law and the constitution.

“Pakistan Army is the guarantor of the country’s defence. There is no example of this type of violence. The government will take necessary action against all the suspects involved in the violence. The government is investigating the May 9 incidents under the constitution and law,” he said.

Later, the governor visited various stalls and appreciated the projects of construction companies.

RCCI office-bearers said it was very important to improve the construction industry for the development of the economy.

Published in Dawn, June 4th, 2023