Ministers laud budget, opposition flags jobs, youth gaps

June 16, 2026 (MLN): The National Assembly continued its deliberations on the proposed federal budget for the upcoming financial year on Tuesday, with ministers defending government priorities and opposition members raising concerns over what they described as gaps in the fiscal plan.

Health Minister Mustafa Kamal used his address to highlight population growth as a critical challenge, arguing that a rapidly expanding population strains the country's capacity to deliver healthcare, education and housing.

He welcomed the budget's decision to exempt contraceptives from General Sales Tax, calling it a meaningful step toward population stabilisation, and said the government had also drawn up a roadmap to broaden public awareness on the issue.

Parliamentary Secretary Abdul Qadir Patel struck a diplomatic note, praising the civilian and military leadership for their role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran, saying Pakistan's peace efforts would be remembered for generations.

Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf described the budget as balanced and growth-oriented, saying the government had incorporated a range of measures aimed at providing relief to ordinary citizens, according to a press release issued.

Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi made a pitch for foreign investment, asserting that Pakistan had emerged as the most secure destination for capital in the region.

He too credited the country's leadership for elevating Pakistan's international standing through its mediation efforts between Tehran and Washington.

Dissenting voices came from the opposition benches.

Sana Ullah Khan Mastikhel argued that the budget had failed to address the needs of the youth, agriculture sector and industry.

Sehar Kamran called the seven 7% salary increase for government employees inadequate, demanding a more substantial upward revision.

Nauman Shaikh echoed similar concerns, urging the government to focus on job creation and chart a clearer path for economic direction.

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