DACCA: A revenue deficit of Rs 3097 crores in the Budget estimates of the Government of East Pakistan for the year 1951-52 was revealed today [Feb 21] in the Provincial Legislature by the Premier, who is also holding the portfolio of finance. Mr Nurul Amin further announced the introduction of a comprehensive scheme of free and compulsory primary education in the province. The entire scheme, extended over a period of ten years, is estimated to cost about Rs 17 crores.

A sum of over Rs one crore has been earmarked for the rehabilitation of Muslim refugees from Bharati provinces. Another feature of the Budget is the Government’s decision to develop rural publicity by installing cheap and small community radio sets in the villages.

Dealing with the gap between Revenue, receipts and expenditure, Mr Nurul Amin said that this could be met either “by increasing our income or by curtailment of the expenditure”. …[H]e explained the difficulties in raising the existing taxes or introducing fresh taxes. The provincial field taxation was very limited and there was not much scope for further taxation, he added.

Published in Dawn, February 22nd, 2026