Responding to Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Shehbaz acknowledged that citizens of each province have a rightful claim over their resources.

He noted that Balochistan’s share was significantly increased under the 2010 National Finance Commission Award and that approximately Rs73 billion were allocated two years ago for the solarisation of agricultural tube-wells in the province.

He said the Gwadar-Chaman dual carriageway was being completed with federal funding exceeding Rs300 billion, and defended the fencing of the Durand Line as a justified security measure.

The prime minister also paid tribute to security forces and law enforcement agencies making “unparalleled sacrifices” against terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

PM Shehbaz reiterated his offer of dialogue to resolve outstanding issues.

Achakzai, opening the budget discussion as per tradition, called for stronger support for the poor, agriculture, education, and tourism.

Several lawmakers raised concerns during the debate.

Naeema Kishwar Khan proposed a 30% salary increase and raising the minimum wage to Rs50,000.

Syeda Shehla Raza stressed expanding the tax net rather than raising taxes.

Nawabzada Mir Jamal Khan Raisani said the people of Balochistan were struggling to access basic services including education, health, and clean water.

Major (retd) Tahir Iqbal proposed at least a 15% increase in government employee salaries, while Riaz Fatyana called for an AI fund in the budget to position Pakistan as a global AI hub.

The National Assembly will reconvene Sunday at 11.00 a.m.