The Punjab government has launched a sweeping austerity campaign, introducing salary cuts and major expense reductions.
The move follows cabinet approval of a new cost-saving policy. Officials say the collected funds will support the federal government’s emergency efforts.
The Punjab Finance Department has issued an official notification announcing salary deductions for government employees, ministers, parliamentary secretaries, and members of the assembly.
The decision comes after the Punjab cabinet approved the austerity policy, aimed at reducing government expenditures.
Two-day salary cut for govt officers
According to the notification, two days’ salary will be deducted from government officers of Grade 17 and above. This measure applies across departments and is part of broader efforts to streamline public spending.
The austerity policy imposes stricter measures on top officials.
Also Read: Pakistan enforces 50% attendance in govt offices
The notification states that two months’ salaries of provincial ministers, advisors to the chief minister, parliamentary secretaries, and special assistants will be deducted. This includes senior leadership within the provincial government.
Salary cuts for assembly members
Members of the Punjab Assembly will also be affected by the austerity drive.
According to the notification, 24% of their salaries will be deducted for two months. Another directive indicates that 25% deduction will be made for the same period, reflecting the scale of cuts imposed on lawmakers.
The notification confirms that all deducted amounts will be deposited into the federal government’s austerity or emergency fund. This step is intended to contribute to national-level financial management during challenging economic conditions.
Additional cost-cutting measures
Beyond salary reductions, the government has introduced several operational changes to reduce expenses. Officials have been directed that meetings should be conducted online where necessary, minimizing logistical and administrative costs.
A major reduction has also been ordered in government transport usage. The notification states that transport expenses should be cut by 70 percent, allowing only 30% usage for secretariat employees.
The measures are part of a wider austerity campaign launched in Punjab to control public spending and improve financial discipline.
With strict implementation directives in place, authorities aim to ensure that all departments comply fully with the new policy.
