🇵🇰 Pakistan Ministers’ Pay Revealed: Public Shocked as Cabinet Members Pocket Over ₹5 Lakh Monthly

While Pakistan continues to grapple with severe financial instability and growing inflation, the government has made a move that’s raising eyebrows across the nation. The country’s ministers, despite public struggles and economic challenges, have been granted a massive 188% hike in their monthly salaries, taking their pay to a staggering PKR 5.19 lakh, equivalent to INR 1.55 lakh.

📌 Ministers’ Salary Hike Sparks Public Outrage

The news has shocked many, particularly because it comes at a time when Pakistan is battling skyrocketing inflation, food shortages, and fuel crises. The government’s move to significantly boost salaries of cabinet ministers, state ministers, and advisors is being called tone-deaf and unjust by a large section of the public.

Despite Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s earlier promises to exercise financial austerity and reduce government expenditure, this new salary structure suggests otherwise.

🧾 Here’s What Pakistani Ministers Are Earning Now

Under the revised structure:

• Federal Cabinet Ministers are now paid PKR 5.19 lakh per month

• State Ministers and Advisors receive similar compensation

• Apart from the salary, luxury allowances, government vehicles, security, and housing are also provided

This development starkly contrasts with the financial reality of common citizens in Pakistan, where many are struggling to afford basic essentials due to the ongoing economic meltdown.

🆘 A Nation in Crisis, But Perks for Politicians

With the nation already in the clutches of external debt, rising unemployment, and a weakened rupee, this decision has fueled public anger. Citizens are questioning the government's priorities—while basic healthcare, education, and daily essentials remain out of reach for many, the political elite seem insulated with cushy paychecks and premium benefits.

According to the government, this salary increase is justified to "ensure motivation and reward efficiency" among high-ranking officials tasked with guiding the country through a financial recovery.

However, critics argue that the real need of the hour is public welfare, not increased ministerial perks.

🇮🇳 How Do Indian Ministers’ Salaries Compare?

When compared to India, the contrast is glaring. As per recent government records:

• Cabinet Ministers in India earn ₹2.32 lakh/month

• Ministers of State (Independent Charge) receive ₹2.31 lakh/month

• Ministers of State get ₹2.30 lakh/month

Similar to Pakistan, Indian ministers are also entitled to government-provided bungalows, cars, domestic staff, and security. However, the salary difference, considering the economic disparity and per capita income of both countries, still paints a clearer picture of misaligned fiscal priorities in Pakistan.

🤔 Public Reaction & Political Backlash

As the news of the salary hike went viral on social media, it sparked memes, outrage, and debates. Several economists and opposition leaders have condemned the move, calling it “insensitive and irresponsible.”

A local university professor remarked,

“How can a country battling IMF bailouts afford to pamper its ministers like this? It’s a classic example of misplaced governance.”

🔚 Conclusion: A Contradiction of Promises

The decision to hike ministers’ salaries in Pakistan during an ongoing economic storm is being seen as hypocritical and unjustified. While the government insists it’s part of a broader economic strategy, the average citizen sees it as another example of elite privilege in a struggling nation.

Until visible improvements in public welfare, infrastructure, and inflation control are seen, this bold move will continue to be a topic of scrutiny and disapproval.