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Business Recorder
28-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Ministries, divisions: ECC approves 14 summaries seeking TSGs worth Rs2.629trn
ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet on Friday approved 14 summaries seeking technical supplementary grants (TSGs) worth around Rs2.629 trillion for various ministries and divisions to meet the cost of ongoing projects and initiatives during the current financial year 2024-25. The ECC of the Cabinet that met under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb also approved natural gas pricing structure for fiscal year 2025-26 which also allowed price of gas for bulk consumers, power plants operating on natural gas and industry to be increased by an average value of around 10 percent. The ECC reviewed and approved several TSGs to meet the cost of ongoing projects and initiatives from different ministries and divisions during the current financial year 2024-25. Ministries & Divs: ECC clears TSG summaries These include, Rs829.67 billion TSG and Rs1,774.20 billion TSG for Finance Division for repayment of domestic debt and for foreign loan repayments respectively, Rs15.839 billion TSG for the Ministry of Defence to cover the shortfall in admissible pay and allowances, in employees-related and non-employees related expenditures and clear the outstanding dues as part of the PM's Package for the martyrs of the recent Pak-India war, Rs63 million TSG for Finance Division to cover the shortfall under unavoidable and mandatory expenditures on account of rent for office and residential buildings of the Department of the Auditor General of Pakistan during the current fiscal year 2024-25. The ECC also approved Rs100 million TSG for Ministry of Foreign Affairs to meet the expenditure under the Head of Account 'Other Delegation Abroad' during the current fiscal year 2024-25, Rs1.765 billion TSG for Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control to meet the operational requirements as well as to clear the outstanding/pending liabilities of the Frontier Corps KP (North and South) and Frontier Corps Balochistan (North and South) during the current fiscal year 2024-25, Rs300 million TSG for Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control to clear outstanding liabilities under various Heads of Account of the ICT Police during the current fiscal year 2024-25, Rs100 million TSG for Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control to clear the outstanding liabilities of various vendors provided services and supplies during the law and order situation in the ICT region during the current fiscal year, Rs52.241 million TSG for Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control to meet the cost of up-gradation/uplifting and availability of latest investigation equipment and friendly environment at ICT police stations during the current fiscal year and Rs100 million TSG for Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control in respect of Frontier Corps KP (North) during the current fiscal year 2024-25. The ECC also approved Rs5.5 billion TSG for Strategic Plans Divisions as rupee cover to Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) during current fiscal year 2024-25, Rs117.97 million TSG for Petroleum Division to meet the cost of PSDP project titled, 'Expansion and Up-gradation of Pakistan Petroleum Corehouse' during the current fiscal year 2024-25, Rs254.57 million TSG for Finance Division for onward release to Government of Balochistan in terms of incentive package for PAS/PSP officers posted under it and Rs198 million TSG for Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control for repair and maintenance of the Executive Building, Islamabad. The ECC also took up a summary submitted by the Petroleum Division, seeking approval for a revised natural gas pricing structure for the fiscal year 2025–26, to take effect from July 1, 2025. Under the OGRA Ordinance, the federal government is required to notify revised consumer gas prices within 40 days of OGRA's determination to ensure cost recovery and regulatory compliance. The submission also aligns with structural benchmarks agreed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), including rationalisation of captive power tariffs and a shift from cross-subsidies to direct, targeted support for low-income consumers. The ECC considered the proposed adjustments in energy sector tariffs and decided to maintain gas prices to protect household consumers with only fixed charges re-adjusted in domestic sector to recover the asset costs. It also allowed price of gas for bulk consumers, power plants operating on natural gas and industry to be increased by an average value of around 10 percent. The ECC also considered a proposal brought on by the Ministry of National Food Security and Research (MNFSR) for import of sugar to stabilise the sugar prices. The ECC discussed the summary and approved the proposal of the Ministry for constitution of a 10-member steering committee led by Federal Minister for MNFSR and including Federal Minister for Commerce, SAPM to Ministry of Foreign Affairs, secretary Finance Division, chairman FBR and others to come back to the ECC with their recommendations on the matter. The ECC also discussed a summary by the Finance Division regarding changes in the home remittances incentive schemes, and tasked the State Bank of Pakistan and the Finance Division to propose and present a proper plan by 31st July to ECC, ensuring impact analysis and a roadmap for a properly-managed transition. The Cabinet body also considered a summary by the Finance Division for the launch of a risk coverage scheme for small farmers and under-served areas, and accorded in-principle approval to the proposal with instructions for further fine-tuning and incorporating in it additional safeguards before its planned launch on 14th August 2025. The ECC was told that the scheme would likely bring 750,000 new agricultural borrowers into the formal financial system and generate an incremental credit portfolio of Rs300 billion during its disbursement tenure of three years from fiscal year 2026 to fiscal year 2028. The budgetary requirement for meeting risk coverage and operational cost of the banks is estimated to be Rs37.5 billion, spread over fiscal year 2027 to fiscal year 2031. The meeting was attended by several key federal ministers, including Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, and senior officials from various ministries and divisions were also present. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
26-06-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
PM, President reaffirm commitment to eradicating drug abuse
Listen to article Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari have reiterated their unwavering commitment to eliminating drug abuse and strengthening collective efforts to tackle the menace, emphasising the importance of a united front to combat this pervasive issue. In their separate messages on the observance of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, both leaders called for concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including government institutions, civil society, the private sector, and international partners, to eradicate drug abuse from society. Shehbaz, in his message, recognised the gravity of the drug abuse issue, acknowledging the government's ongoing efforts to combat the menace. Read: Two female drug suspects exonerated He pointed out that while the government is fully aware of the challenges, the success of these efforts will ultimately depend on the collective resolve of individuals, society and the broader community. He also underscored that drug abuse and trafficking are unacceptable not only in terms of Pakistan's international obligations but also in relation to the country's legal framework and societal norms. PM Shehbaz expressed deep respect for law enforcement agencies, praising their sacrifices and tireless work in dismantling drug networks and ensuring a narcotics-free Pakistan. Read more: TikToker Babrah arrested for drug dealing Meanwhile, President Zardari said Pakistan remains steadfast in its fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, underlining the significant role played by the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), which operates under the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control, in curbing the drug trade. He stressed that the government would continue to take strong measures to rid the nation of these harmful practices. Zardari also highlighted the need for greater awareness and education, particularly among the youth, about the dangers of drug abuse. He called on citizens to unite in efforts to eliminate drugs and contribute to creating a safer, healthier society for future generations. Both leaders expressed their gratitude towards law enforcement agencies, paying tribute to those who have lost their lives in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking. In conclusion the premier and the president urged all citizens to stand together in the battle against drugs and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a drug-free society through cooperation and sustained effort.
Business Recorder
03-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Ministries & Divs: ECC clears TSG summaries
ISLAMABAD: A meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet was held on Monday under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb. The ECC took up a number of summaries from various ministries and divisions seeking Technical Supplementary Grants (TSGs) besides some other crucial matters brought to the Cabinet body. For the summaries submitted for grant of TSGs, the ECC considered and decided the following: Rs. 1.259 billion TSG for Ministry of Finance to return the amount to the Government of Sindh as un-utilized funds from wheat seed cash reimbursement programme. Rs. 5.6 billion TSG for the Ministry of Finance as rupee cover for ADB funded Women Inclusive Finance (WIF) project Rs. 231.893 million TSG for Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control to meet the additional funds requirement of civil armed forces Rs. 64 million TSG for Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control on account of staff transferred to CDA from the Pak. PWD Rs. 50 million TSG for the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs to support PILDAT for promotion of democracy by focusing on governance and public policy. Rs. 90 million TSG for Petroleum Division for execution of gas schemes in the province of Punjab. Rs. 100 million TSG for Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety as grant-in-aid to release the funds to SOS Children's Villages Pakistan. Rs. 1.889 billion TSG for Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for clearing advertising liabilities and other expenditures Rs. 2.150 billion TSG for Ministry of Housing and Works for onward transfer to Pakistan Infrastructure Development Company Limited for execution of development schemes of District Swabi. Rs. 1.70 billion TSG for Ministry of Defence for technological upgradation of ISPR. Rs. 400 million TSG for Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control for development expenditure under the Sustainable Development Goals Achievement Programme (SAP). Rs. 40.34 billion TSG for Economic Affairs Division on account of revised budget estimates for FY2024-25 for repayment of short-term foreign loan credits. Rs. 2.232 million TSG for Ministry of Law and Justice for reimbursement of funds to CDA in respect of project covering establishment of district courts in Islamabad. Rs. 2.750 million for Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training for the Prime Minister's Youth Skill Development Programme. Rs. 750 million TSG for Power Division for development expenditure. Rs. 1.2 billion TSG for Ministry of Interior for arrangement of 23rd meeting of the Council of the Heads of State of the Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) in Islamabad. Rs. 14 million TSG for Ministry of Kashmir Affairs &Gilgit Baltistan for employees related expenditure. Rs. 294 million TSG for Ministry of Finance for merged Ministry of KAGB and SAFRON. The ECC also took up and approved a summary by Power Division for approval of a tripartite power purchase agreement of 1145 MG Karachi Nuclear Plant Unit-2 (K-2) and Unit-3 (K-3) at Karachi. On a summary of the Petroleum Division regarding the Machike-Thallian - Tarrujabba White Oil Pipeline, the ECC accorded full backing to the project but deferred the matter until the next ECC meeting for detailed working by the Finance, Planning and Petroleum Divisions on the financial and operational modalities of the proposal. The ECC also considered a summary by the Ministry of Commerce and approved amendment in import policy order (IPO) for state-owned defence production entities and their wholly owned commercial subsidiaries. The ECC discussed and approved a proposal by the Finance Division for establishment of 'Women Inclusive Finance Support Fund' Trust under the Asian Development Bank funded women inclusive finance project. The ECC also considered a summary by the Ministry of National Food Security & Research seeking notification of minimum indicative prices of tobacco crop (2025) and revision of cess rates on tobacco for the year 2025-26. The cabinet body discussed the matter and approved the proposal with the instruction to the Ministry to come up with a plan to do away with the existing regime in future in line with the government policy of promoting deregulation in the crop sector. The ECC also considered and approved a summary by the Ministry of Housing and Works for withdrawal of directives transfer Hyderabad Package (PSDP#223) and Karachi (PSDEP#222) from the Government of Sindh to PIDCL. The Cabinet body also considered and approved a summary by the Finance Division, outlining the policy for the grant of honourarium to the government employees. The meeting was attended by Minister for Power SardarAwais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Minister for Investment Mr. Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, Chairman SECP along with federal secretaries and senior officials from relevant ministries and divisions. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
India.com
01-06-2025
- Politics
- India.com
Fear Of India Will Divide Pakistan Into Pieces: BJP's Nishikant Dubey
Senior BJP leader and Lok Sabha member Nishikant Dubey on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Pakistan, saying that there is rebellion everywhere against its army, and the fear of India will divide it into pieces. He said that Pakistan is so burdened with debt that people are suffering from hunger and thirst. "There is rebellion everywhere against the Pakistani army, which is following the tradition of bullets in exchange for bread," Dubey said. "Pakistan sees its country being divided into pieces, so it is calling the fight for bread in Balochistan a fight against Islam, and is calling the citizens of its country agents of India. This fear of India will divide Pakistan into pieces," he wrote on his X handle in Hindi (loosely translated). Dubey, in his post on X, also shared an official letter from the Pakistan government's Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control. The letter is dated May 31, 2025, with the subject: "Reference to terrorist organisations in official correspondence and documents" written on it. Pakistan has alleged that the unrest in Balochistan is happening "at the behest of India" and this is "detrimental to Islamic faith and sovereignty of Pakistan". The people in Balochistan have been fighting for their rights, resources and dignity to live for the past several decades. The Baloch people, who are a unique ethno-linguistic group, have been the victims of marginalisation and subjugation in Pakistan. Despite being one of the largest Pakistani provinces, this region remains relatively underdeveloped and least populated. The region has abundant natural resources, which are being exploited by the Pakistani Army and other government bodies without giving any benefits to the locals. The people have intensified the struggle lately, even as a majority of their leaders have been arrested and imprisoned. A large number of civilians have also been arrested, and the Pakistan Army is notorious for extrajudicial killings in the region, which has further fuelled the hatred. The people in the region have been denied even the basic rights. Not taking into consideration the genuine demands of the people, the Pakistani government has labelled their protests as terrorist activities. In the Pakistan government's letter, it is mentioned that "keeping in view the involvement of some organisations and groups in terrorist activities in Balochistan, at the behest of India (Hindustan), which are detrimental to Islamic faith and sovereignty of Pakistan, and customary traditions, it has been decided that, henceforth, all Terrorist Groups and Organizations operating in Balochistan will be referred to as 'Fitna al Hindustan'." The letter states that the "change aims to reflect the true nature and ideology of these terrorist organisations and groups and nefarious designs of India (Hindustan) against the people of Pakistan". The communication further says that all government entities need to adopt and use this stance. Dubey has also questioned the IMF loan to Pakistan. He said in another post on X that whether the IMF or China, America, Saudi Arabia, or Turkey is giving a loan to Pakistan, all the money will go down the drain. "Worthless Pakistan will perish under the burden of debt," he said.
Hans India
01-06-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Fear of India will divide Pakistan into pieces, says Nishikant Dubey
New Delhi: Senior BJP leader and Lok Sabha member Nishikant Dubey on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Pakistan, saying that there is rebellion everywhere against its army and the fear of India will divide it into pieces. He said that Pakistan is so burdened with debt that people are suffering from hunger and thirst. "There is rebellion everywhere against the Pakistani army, which is following the tradition of bullets in exchange for bread," Dubey said. "Pakistan sees its country being divided into pieces, so it is calling the fight for bread in Balochistan a fight against Islam, and is calling the citizens of its country agents of India. This fear of India will divide Pakistan into pieces," he wrote on his X handle in Hindi (loosely translated). Dubey, in his post on X, also shared an official letter from the Pakistan government's Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control. The letter is dated May 31, 2025, with the subject: "Reference to terrorist organisations in official correspondence and documents" written on it. Pakistan has alleged that the unrest in Balochistan is happening "at the behest of India" and this is "detrimental to Islamic faith and sovereignty of Pakistan". The people in Balochistan have been fighting for their rights, resources and dignity to live for the past several decades. The Baloch people, who are a unique ethno-linguistic group, have been the victims of marginalisation and subjugation in Pakistan. Despite being one of the largest Pakistani provinces, this region remains relatively underdeveloped and least populated. The region has abundant natural resources, which are being exploited by the Pakistani Army and other government bodies without giving any benefits to the locals. The people have intensified the struggle lately, even as a majority of their leaders have been arrested and imprisoned. A large number of civilians have also been arrested, and the Pakistan Army is notorious for extrajudicial killings in the region, which has further fuelled the hatred. The people in the region have been denied even the basic rights. Not taking into consideration the genuine demands of the people, the Pakistani government has labelled their protests as terrorist activities. In the Pakistan government's letter, it is mentioned that "keeping in view the involvement of some organisations and groups in terrorist activities in Balochistan, at the behest of India (Hindustan), which are detrimental to Islamic faith and sovereignty of Pakistan, and customary traditions, it has been decided that, henceforth, all Terrorist Groups and Organizations operating in Balochistan will be referred to as 'Fitna al Hindustan'." The letter states that the "change aims to reflect the true nature and ideology of these terrorist organisations and groups and nefarious designs of India (Hindustan) against the people of Pakistan". The communication further says that all government entities need to adopt and use this stance. Dubey has also questioned the IMF loan to Pakistan. He said in another post on X that whether IMF or China, America, Saudi Arabia or Turkey is giving a loan to Pakistan, all the money will go down the drain. "Worthless Pakistan will perish under the burden of debt," he said.
