Zardari Urges Govt to Raise Wages, Cut Taxes & Create Jobs in Next Budget

President Asif Ali Zardari has urged the federal government to increase salaries and pensions in the upcoming budget while reducing income taxes for the salaried class. He also emphasized that the government should focus on job creation rather than downsizing as a strategy to tackle economic hardships.

Speaking at a joint session of Parliament on Monday, marking the beginning of the new parliamentary year, Zardari addressed the financial struggles of workers and salaried individuals, pointing to inflation, rising costs of essential goods, and surging energy prices. He stressed the need for real relief measures, including higher wages, tax cuts, and lower energy costs, to ease the burden on citizens.

Warning against job reductions, he advocated for employment-driven policies that maximize the potential of skilled workers. As the first civilian president to address Parliament for the eighth time, Zardari also called for inclusive and uniform development, ensuring that no province, district, or village is left behind.

He underscored the urgent need for investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in underdeveloped regions to address longstanding grievances and reduce disparities.