Punjab Budget 2026, INR 19,279 Cr Allocated to Education Sector

Punjab has announced a major financial allocation for the education sector in the 2026–27 state budget, highlighting its focus on long-term academic reforms. The government stated that the move aims to redesign the education ecosystem and strengthen school infrastructure across the state. Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said the reforms mark the next phase of transformation in the state’s government school system. The allocation represents a significant increase compared with the previous year’s education budget.

Punjab Education Budget Allocation for 2026–27

The state government has proposed a substantial investment to expand education reforms and improve learning outcomes. The key financial allocation announced in the budget includes:

• INR 19,279 crore total allocation for the education sector in 2026–27
• Around 7% increase compared with the previous year’s education budget
• INR 690 crore allocated specifically for strengthening school infrastructure

Officials said the increased funding will support infrastructure development, modern learning facilities and academic programmes across government schools.

Sikhiya Kranti 2.0 Initiative for Education Transformation

Punjab has also announced a new phase of reforms under the Sikhiya Kranti 2.0 programme. The initiative aims to modernise the education system and expand opportunities for students. Key features of the initiative include:

• INR 3,500 crore investment planned over the next six years
• Collaboration with the World Bank to strengthen school education reforms
• Focus on foundational literacy and numeracy programmes
• Expansion of science and commerce streams in government schools
• Teacher training and leadership development initiatives

The programme is designed to build on previous reforms and bring Punjab’s education standards closer to global benchmarks.

Career Counselling Framework for School Students

To help students make informed academic and career decisions, the state government plans to introduce a structured counselling system in schools. The initiative will include the following measures:

• A statewide career counselling framework for students
• Coverage for approximately 7.35 lakh students from Classes IX to XII
• Launch of a dedicated digital career guidance portal
• Guidance on higher education options and job opportunities

Officials believe that structured counselling will help students choose suitable academic paths and prepare for competitive careers.

Focus on Infrastructure and School Upgradation

The government also plans to continue infrastructure improvements in government schools. Key priorities include:

• Upgrading school facilities and learning environments
• Strengthening classroom infrastructure and academic resources
• Partnerships with reputed coaching institutions to support exam preparation
• Expanding opportunities for students from economically weaker backgrounds

Officials said these initiatives aim to ensure that government school students can compete nationally and internationally regardless of their socio-economic background.The Punjab government emphasised that education will remain a central pillar of the state’s development strategy. By increasing financial support and launching large-scale reforms, the administration aims to prepare students for future academic and employment opportunities while strengthening the overall education ecosystem.