Funds allocation: Under-developed areas to get preference in budget, says CM

Chief minister says effective steps will be taken to promote education

LAHORE: Under-developed and far-flung areas will be given preference in allocating funds for the 2016-17 budget, Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif said on Wednesday.

The CM was addressing a meeting through video link from London to review recommendations for budgetary allocations. He said that the upcoming budget would be people friendly and reflective of the citizens’ expectations.

“The budget will be pro-poor. No additional tax will be levied on the poor. Provision of facilities to the common man and rapid development of province will be the focus of this budget,” the CM said.

He said promoting education was necessary to deal with challenges faced by the country and for speeding up economic development. “Effective steps should be taken to promote education in the province. Funds will be allocated for the development of south Punjab according to the proportion of its population. The next budget will prove to be a catalyst for economic development. Completion of mega projects will start a new era of prosperity,” he said.

The chief minister said that public funds would be spent transparently. He said additional funds were being allocated in the budget to start development schemes in far-flung and under-developed areas. “Attention is being paid to providing basic facilities to the people at their doorstep. Billions of rupees will be allocated for health, education and clean drinking water projects. Strengthening of agricultural sector along with industry is vital for the progress of the country,” the CM said.

He said that steps were being taken for the welfare of farmers and a Rs100 billion package had been announced for their welfare. “Implementation of this package will change the economic outlook of the country and improve per acre yield in the next two years. Energy projects will also be given special attention in the upcoming budget,” the CM said.

He said that adequate funds would be allocated for developing infrastructure in the budget.

Law Minister Rana Sanaullah, Finance Minister Ayesha Ghaus Pasha, the chief secretary, the Planning and Development Board chairman, the finance secretary and other officials were also present.

Subsidy on pulses: The government has decided to increase the subsidy on pulses and gram flour (besan) in Ramazan Bazaars. The price of gram flour will be reduced by Rs10 per kilogramme. The gram pulse and besan will now be available at Rs20 per kg less than the open market. The decision will be implemented from Thursday (today).

The instructions to reduce the prices were issued by the chief minister while chairing meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Wednesday. The CM also directed officials to continue the crackdown against hoarders and profiteers.

CM expresses sorrow on Istanbul blast: The CM has expressed sorrow over the recent blast in Istanbul and condoled with the bereaved families. He said that Pakistanis were saddened by the tragic incident.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 9^th, 2016.