The Government of Punjab has announced a major savings drive, cutting Rs35 billion from the health and education sectors to meet financial targets linked to International Monetary Fund (IMF) commitments. The decision includes surrendering unspent funds for the current fiscal year and eliminating nearly 150,000 vacant government positions.

Officials say the measures are aimed at controlling public expenditure and stabilising the province’s finances during a period of economic pressure. However, the move has drawn strong criticism from teachers’ unions and public sector employees, who argue that reducing vacancies will limit job opportunities and worsen unemployment.

Education stakeholders warn that fewer resources could deepen challenges already faced by public schools, including overcrowded classrooms and limited facilities. Similarly, health experts fear the funding cuts may strain hospitals and clinics that are already operating under pressure due to rising patient loads.

Critics also question the long-term impact of such policies, suggesting that reduced investment in essential sectors could undermine human development and service delivery. As the government pushes ahead with reforms, concerns continue to grow about the balance between fiscal discipline and maintaining adequate public services.