In a significant move to enhance public welfare and stimulate the local economy, the provincial cabinet of Balochistan has given the green light to a series of ambitious initiatives. The decisions were finalized during the 21st meeting of the cabinet, which was presided over by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Friday.
Major Subsidy for Electric Bikes Approved
The cabinet announced a major electric bike scheme designed to benefit a wide cross-section of society. The program specifically targets students, working women, government employees, and the general public. To make the bikes affordable, the government will provide a substantial 30 per cent subsidy. Furthermore, the remaining cost can be paid through easy bank-financed instalments, making ownership accessible to many.
Chief Minister Bugti emphasized that this initiative is intended for all segments of society, ensuring widespread benefit. The cabinet also extended its thanks to Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif for his consistent support towards new communication and education projects in the province.
New Health Insurance Scheme for Government Staff
Addressing the critical area of healthcare, the cabinet was briefed on the current annual expenditure of approximately Rs6 to Rs7 billion for treating nearly 250,000 government employees. To streamline this process and improve service delivery, a pivotal decision was made.
The cabinet approved the introduction of a comprehensive health insurance scheme for all government employees. This move is aimed at providing better medical coverage while managing costs effectively. Alongside this, the cabinet also sanctioned audits of advance medical payments and the Public Endowment Fund to ensure transparency and accountability in health-related finances.
Expanding Economic Opportunities for Youth
In a bid to foster economic growth and create jobs, the cabinet approved the expansion of the Enterprise Development Programme to the districts of Gwadar, Kech, and Awaran. This expansion is strategically focused on generating new economic opportunities for the youth of Balochistan, empowering them through entrepreneurship and skill development.
Concluding the session, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti underscored the government's core principles. He stated that good governance is impossible without merit-based appointments and reaffirmed the provincial administration's unwavering commitment to merit, transparency, and the equitable distribution of resources across Balochistan.
