Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) Approves Key Grants and Projects
In its latest meeting, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, approved several important technical supplementary grants and projects aimed at boosting key sectors across the country.
Major Approvals
The ECC approved a technical supplementary grant of Rs1.94 billion for the Ministry of Defence, and Rs52.7 million for the National Commission for Women to support their ongoing initiatives.
Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP)
A total of Rs2.26 billion was allocated to fund 15 ongoing projects under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP). This allocation reflects the government’s commitment to advancing infrastructure and development projects across various sectors.
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Ministry of Information Grants
Additionally, the ECC approved a summary for grants to the Ministry of Information, aimed at accelerating development in the information sector, which plays a crucial role in national communication and awareness.
Cultural and Diplomatic Events
The committee also approved Rs120 million for arrears related to key international events such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, Korean Culture Week, and the Council of Heads of Government (CHG) meetings. These events are critical for enhancing diplomatic and cultural ties with other nations.
Support for Education and Security
In a bid to enhance education quality, the ECC granted Rs1.50 billion to increase the salaries of faculty members in federal education institutions. This move is expected to improve teacher retention and attract talent to the education sector.
Furthermore, the committee allocated Rs1.72 billion to the Interior Ministry for the repair of CCTV cameras damaged during protests in Islamabad and to cover a 5% contract balance for the Safe City project, an initiative aimed at enhancing security infrastructure.
Warehouse and Logistics Sector
In a significant move to support the logistics industry, the ECC endorsed a proposal to officially declare the warehouse and logistics sector as an industry, signaling a step towards improving efficiency and encouraging investment in this essential field.
Prime Minister’s Relief Package
In terms of social welfare, the ECC approved Rs1.68 billion for the Prime Minister’s Relief Package to be used at Utility Stores, ensuring that essential goods are available to citizens at subsidized rates during times of economic hardship.
These approvals demonstrate the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening various sectors, from defense and education to social welfare and infrastructure development, while also responding to both domestic and international challenges.
