Punjab's Finance Minister outlines a Rs 2.36 lakh crore budget focusing on education, health, and drug issues.

Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema presented a budget of Rs 2.36 lakh crore for 2025-26, emphasizing education, health, and combating drug issues. Key highlights include a first-ever drug census, a boost to health insurance coverage for all families, and increased allocations for infrastructure and agriculture. The budget did not introduce new taxes or fulfill promises of a Rs 1,100 monthly honorarium for women, leading to criticism from the opposition. The budget aims for fiscal consolidation with targeted deficit reductions.