Quetta: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday announced that Balochistan will receive a quarter of the federal government’s Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) allocation for the upcoming fiscal year, reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to uplift Pakistan’s most underserved province.
Speaking at a grand jirga in Quetta, the premier stated that out of the Rs1 trillion earmarked for the PSDP, Rs250 billion would be spent on projects in Balochistan. He added that the government aims to ensure transparency in fund utilisation to support long-term prosperity and inclusive development in the region.
In a significant move, Shehbaz Sharif also pledged Rs70 billion for a large-scale solarisation project to address Balochistan’s chronic energy woes. Additionally, Rs150 billion will be allocated for the construction and upgradation of the N-25 highway, a vital route linking Karachi with Quetta and Chaman. These funds will be made available through fiscal space created by falling international petroleum prices, the PM said.
The prime minister also recalled initiatives taken during his tenure as Punjab chief minister, including a 10% quota for Balochistani students in laptop and scholarship programmes, as well as Rs2 billion earmarked for a cardiac hospital in the province. He further noted Punjab’s voluntary contribution of Rs160 billion to Balochistan under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award.
Condemning recent acts of terrorism, Sharif pointed to the involvement of foreign-funded groups attempting to destabilise the province and hinder Pakistan’s progress. He affirmed that the government, along with the armed forces, remains resolute in maintaining peace and delivering social and economic justice to the people of Balochistan.
The premier also visited the Command and Staff College in Quetta, where he addressed military officers on evolving threats, including hybrid warfare and economic sabotage. He emphasized inter-institutional preparedness and unity to safeguard national interests.
Shehbaz Sharif lauded Pakistan’s response during the Pulwama crisis and recent Indian provocations in May, crediting the military’s operational readiness and the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for maintaining national security and morale.
On the economic front, the prime minister reported key improvements since March 2024, including a 28% increase in tax revenue, reduced inflation, and currency stabilization — outcomes he attributed to anti-smuggling efforts, corruption control, and digitization reforms like faceless assessment at Karachi Port.
Sharif also highlighted growing strategic partnerships with China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, and other Gulf states, noting their support in helping Pakistan navigate difficult times. He concluded with a call for national unity and perseverance to make Pakistan a globally respected nation.
The event was attended by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Balochistan Governor Abdul Khaliq Achakzai, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, and other senior civil and military officials.
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