Pakistan to Abolish Five Ministries by July 30
The government of Pakistan has announced plans to abolish five federal ministries by July 30. This decision includes the Ministries of Information Technology (IT), Industry and Production, Health, Kashmir Affairs, and States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON), as reported by ARY News.
Employee Transition Plans
Sources indicate that discussions are ongoing regarding the future of employees affected by this decision. Several proposals are being considered, including:
- Golden Handshake Packages: For employees nearing retirement.
- Absorption into Other Ministries: Reallocating employees to different ministries.
- Inclusion in Surplus Pool: Placing employees in a surplus pool for potential future reassignment.
These proposals have been prepared by the Institutional Reforms Cell in collaboration with the relevant ministries and will be discussed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Final Decision Pending
The final decision on the abolishment will be made after Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif is briefed on the matter. PM Shehbaz had previously directed the relevant ministries to provide recommendations for the planned abolishment.
Background and Context
This move aligns with demands from Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who has been advocating for the reduction of federal ministries. In his first address to the nation after assuming office, PM Shehbaz emphasized the need to shut down ministries and government departments that have become burdensome rather than beneficial to the country and its people.
The decision to abolish these ministries is part of a broader effort to streamline government operations and reduce inefficiencies, in line with the institutional reform agenda.