KEY POINTS
- Pakistan’s National Development Outlay reached PKR 4.2 trillion in last two years
- Ahsan Iqbal emphasised water security, warning India against weaponising water
- The Planning Minister vows rapid completion of Diamer Bhasha and Mohmand Dams
- PKR 230 billion earmarked to fast-track development and connectivity projects in Balochistan
- Over 200,000 youth will be trained in IT skills under a national program
- PKR 64 billion allocated for Hepatitis elimination program and building health institutions in Islamabad
- A new 500-acre Special Economic Zone in Karachi is planned to boost industrial growth
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal on Thursday highlighted a 50 percent increase in the national development budget over the past two years – a surge he described as a landmark in fiscal discipline and strategic investment.
Iqbal revealed that the development budget had risen from PKR 2.832 trillion in 2023–24 to PKR 4.2 trillion today. This target, originally set for the fifth year of Pakistan’s ongoing five-year plan, has astonishingly been met in just the second year, the minister said.
“It is a testament,” Iqbal said, “to our government’s commitment to rapid, inclusive development, powered by improved revenue collection and fiscal responsibility.”
He further explained that this success was bolstered by the distribution mechanism under which provinces receive 60% of revenue collections, allowing provincial governments to supercharge their own Annual Development Plans.
Focus Shifts to Water Security
Iqbal didn’t mince words when addressing what he termed the “weaponisation of water” by neighbouring India. Citing the ongoing disputes surrounding transboundary rivers, he issued a stern warning: “India has used water as a weapon. India is well aware that it would have to face consequences if it blocks water.”
The minister emphasised the urgent need for self-reliance in water management. “Our next thrust is on the water sector,” he declared.
“Diamer Bhasha and Mohmand Dams will be completed on a war footing. Within three years, Pakistan will have the capacity to store seven million acre-feet of water.”
Balochistan’s Development
The federal minister announced a dedicated allocation of Rs230 billion for Balochistan, a region long underserved in national development efforts.
“We are committed to putting Balochistan on the path of accelerated progress,” he said, emphasising that improving connectivity and infrastructure in the province is key to equitable national growth.
Youth, Health, and Technology
Looking toward Pakistan’s demographic dividend, the minister said over 200,000 young Pakistanis will be trained in modern IT skills as part of a national upskilling initiative.
“The future belongs to those who master technology,” Iqbal stated. “We are determined to make our youth globally competitive.”
Healthcare also received a spotlight, with the Elimination of Hepatitis Program being launched at a cost of PKR 64 billion.
Meanwhile, the federal capital is set to benefit from two major institutional developments: the Jinnah Medical Complex and the Daanish University.
Special Economic Zones and Urban Expansion
Iqbal shared plans for a new Special Economic Zone to be established in Karachi over 500 acres of land, aimed at invigorating industrial activity and employment in the port city.
Fiscal Fairness and Salary Disparities
Addressing concerns over recent salary increases for top parliamentary officials, Iqbal candidly pointed out the growing disparity between ministers and bureaucrats.
“A federal minister earns PKR 200,000 while a secretary earns PKR 600,000. It’s time for a realistic assessment. In many departments, subordinates are earning more than their heads,” he said.
A Vision Anchored in Sustainability
Under the “Uraan Pakistan” development framework, Iqbal reiterated the government’s focus on achieving sustainable and inclusive growth. The nation’s GDP growth stood at 2.7% this fiscal year, and the target for the next is set at an ambitious 4.2%.
“We are not just building roads and dams,” Iqbal concluded, “we are laying the foundation for a resilient, prosperous Pakistan that can stand on its own feet.”
