Islamabad: The Senate is currently engaged in discussions regarding the Federal Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, with both treasury and opposition members proposing amendments to the Finance Bill. The deliberations have seen calls for a range of measures, from increased welfare incentives to long-term economic strategies aimed at enhancing the budget’s impact.

According to Radio Pakistan, Zameer Hussain Ghumro advocated for the inclusion of additional incentives aimed at improving the welfare and well-being of citizens. Ali Zafar, while acknowledging Pakistan’s diplomatic role in easing tensions between Iran and the United States, emphasized the need for the budget’s benefits to reach ordinary citizens through effective trickle-down effects. He also urged the initiation of long-term development projects and the implementation of sustainable economic policies.

Maulana Attaur Rehman highlighted the necessity of restoring peace and security, particularly in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, as a prerequisite for achieving economic stability. Meanwhile, Bilal Mandokhail criticized the budget for its lack of a comprehensive plan to boost national income and tackle long-standing economic issues. He raised concerns about insufficient funding for education, higher education, and science and technology, noting the significant number of children not attending school.

Amir Chishti pointed out that high energy costs, the taxation structure, and the regulatory environment in Pakistan are discouraging both local and foreign investment. He called for increased investment in urban infrastructure to address these challenges.