Government to dissolve two authorities under Health Ministry

The Pakistani government has announced plans to dissolve two authorities under the Health Ministry, a local media outlet cites sources.

The decision reportedly aims to streamline healthcare services and implement cost-cutting measures.

The Islamabad Blood Transfusion Authority and the Human Organ Transplant Authority will be merged with the Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority, resulting in a significant reduction in staffing levels.

In a related development, the Pakistan government also decided to dissolve the Ministry of States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON).

This ministry will be merged into the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, following recommendations from the Rightsizing Committee.

The administrative wing of the Ministry of SAFRON will be dissolved, and a special committee will be formed to decide the future of Jammu & Kashmir State Properties.

The sale of state properties will occur as needed, with revenue generated being allocated for the welfare of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Additionally, the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) of Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan will undergo a review, with plans to transfer control to the Azad Kashmir government. The DHS funding for Gilgit-Baltistan will be managed in consultation with the Ministry of Health.

The Jammu and Kashmir Refugee Rehabilitation Organization is also set to be dissolved, leading to staff reductions in both the Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan Councils, as well as in the Chief Commissioner’s Office for Afghan Refugees.