ISLAMABAD: The Senate Functional Committee on Devolution was briefed on the development projects underway in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), emphasizing the urgent need for public welfare initiatives in both regions.
During the session, the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan highlighted that AJK and GB are designated as special areas under the Constitution of Pakistan and do not fall under the category of provinces in accordance with Article 1(2).
For the fiscal year 2022-23, the Ministry’s budget allocation stood at Rs678.635 million, which was increased to Rs832.426 million for the 2023-24 fiscal year.
Committee members, including the chairperson, stressed the immense strategic importance of AJK and GB for the country and noted the pressing need for further development projects to improve the living standards and welfare of the people in these areas. They urged the ministries to devise a comprehensive plan with clear targets to enhance efficiency and service delivery in the region.
During the briefing from the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture, the committee emphasized the significance of preserving and promoting Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage. Chairperson Dr. Zarqa pointed out the critical role of cultural awareness, especially for the youth, to better understand the country’s diverse and historic background.
The committee proposed increasing the entry fee for foreign visitors to Lok Virsa from Rs1,000 to Rs5,000, noting that the additional funds would greatly support the institution’s activities. Furthermore, the committee plans to conduct visits to various provincial and federal cultural sites to recommend improvements that could enhance the functioning of these historic institutions.
The session concluded with a strong focus on expanding public welfare and cultural preservation efforts across AJK and GB, reinforcing their importance for the nation’s socio-economic progress.
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