ISLAMABAD: The National Economic Council (NEC) has revised Pakistan’s upcoming development budget by increasing funds for the Sustainable Development Goals Achievement Program (SAP), which allows parliamentarians to undertake local uplift projects. The allocation has been raised from Rs50 billion to Rs70 billion for the fiscal year 2025–26.
Initially, the Annual Plan Coordination Committee (APCC) had endorsed a Rs50 billion allocation for SAP during its meeting last Monday. However, the NEC later approved an increase of Rs20 billion, continuing the trend of directing significant public development resources through lawmakers. Last year, SAP was also funded at Rs50 billion.
Meanwhile, funding for the Higher Education Commission (HEC) has taken a hit. The proposed allocation of Rs45 billion, earlier supported by the APCC, has now been reduced, although the final figure has not been disclosed.
Major Allocation for Water Sector
In contrast to the HEC’s reduced budget, the water sector is set to receive Rs147.8 billion, reflecting government priorities amid growing regional tensions over water rights, particularly with India. Of this, Rs96 billion is allocated in local currency, and Rs51.7 billion will come from foreign funding.
Among key projects, the Diamer-Bhasha Dam will receive Rs35 billion, while the Dasu hydropower project is set to get Rs20 billion in the next financial year.
