Islamabad, April 23, 2025 – The federal government has instructed all ministries to surrender unutilized funds from the 2024–25 fiscal year by April 30, 2025, as part of preparations for the 2025–26 federal budget. This directive aims to enhance fiscal discipline and optimize resource allocation for the upcoming financial year.
Sources from the Ministry of Finance revealed that Principal Accounting Officers (PAOs) across all ministries have been given a firm deadline to return surplus funds. The move aligns with guidelines from the Public Accounts Committee, emphasizing the need for accurate revised estimates for the current fiscal year and robust projections for the next.
The initiative targets savings from various areas, including civil government operations, subsidies, and development projects. According to official data, the development budget for the current fiscal year was set at Rs1,100 billion, but only Rs450 billion has been utilized to date. The unspent funds will be redirected to critical sectors requiring urgent financial support, ensuring efficient use of public resources.
Finance Ministry officials underscored the importance of timely compliance to streamline budget planning and maintain fiscal responsibility. The reallocation of these funds is expected to address pressing needs in key areas, boosting economic stability and development.
This proactive step reflects the government’s commitment to prudent financial management. As the April 30 deadline approaches, ministries are gearing up to comply, paving the way for a more strategic and responsive budget for 2025–26. The move is anticipated to strengthen Pakistan’s economic framework by prioritizing high-impact sectors and ensuring optimal use of available resources.
