How to Prepare a National Budget: Skills, Techniques, and the Art of Fiscal Governance

Introduction: Why Budget Preparation Matters In February 2026, fiscal debates are raging across capitals worldwide. Pakistan’s FY26 budget set a GDP growth target of 4.2% with a Rs17.57 trillion outlay while simultaneously slashing overall spending to rein in deficits. Meanwhile, the United States Congressional Budget Office warned of a projected $1.9 trillion deficit by year’s…