PM chairs meeting on measures to reduce govt expenditure

ISLAMABAD: In a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, measures to reduce government expenditure were brought under discussion here today (Wednesday). The meeting focused on the report presented by a committee established for this purpose, under the chairmanship of the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission.

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The committee, which includes the Finance Minister, Establishment and Power Secretaries, and experts Qaiser Bengali and Farrukh Saleem, outlined both short-term and mid-term recommendations. Key proposals included the closure of certain government institutions, the merging of several others, and the transfer of some institutions to provincial authorities.

One major recommendation was the elimination of vacancies that have been unfilled for more than a year, as a cost-saving measure. The committee also suggested the introduction of a contributory pension system for newly recruited government employees. To further reduce expenses, the committee advised hiring the private sector for the provision of services within government institutions.

Additionally, the committee proposed a ban on non-essential travel for government officials and the promotion of teleconferencing as a cost-effective alternative. Another immediate action recommended was the withdrawal of vehicles from government officials who are receiving monetisation benefits.

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PM Shehbaz Sharif announced the formation of a high-powered committee to review these preliminary proposals. This new committee is expected to deliver a comprehensive report within 10 weeks, incorporating best practices from around the world to provide robust recommendations.

The Prime Minister expressed optimism about the committee’s potential to achieve significant savings. “It is hoped that the committee will be able to save billions of rupees for the nation,” the prime minister said.