Gilgit: (RightNow) The Gilgit-Baltistan cabinet has approved the budget for the fiscal year 2026-27. The minimum wage has been increased to Rs 44,000.

The total budget for Gilgit-Baltistan is Rs 218 billion. The development budget is set at Rs 23 billion, and the non-development budget is Rs 28 billion. A stabilization package from the federal government is also included.

Chief Minister Amjad Hussain stated that the social sector is the primary focus of the budget. Funds have been allocated to create employment opportunities for youth and women.

The cabinet has allocated an additional Rs 170 million for the purchase of medicines. A recommendation has been made to allocate Rs 50 million for water management to promote the agricultural sector.

It is noteworthy that for the first time, Rs 1 billion has been allocated for social protection. A decision has also been made to cut the climate fund from development projects.