Islamabad: The Ministry of Planning has launched a special development scheme for 20 backward districts across the country, according to news published in the leading newspapers on November 13.
The development scheme, worth PKR 40 billion, will be implemented through various uplift schemes within 60 months in four provinces. The main objective of this project is to promote inclusive growth and equitable development through targeted investment in human capital and infrastructure development in the backward districts of the country.
As per the details, the cost of the project will be shared between the federal and provincial governments on a 50:50 cost-sharing basis. The uplift project was approved by the Central Development Working Party (CDWP). It was disclosed that PKR 18 billion has already been earmarked for the project under Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) 2022-23 budget.
The news source mentioned that the 20 districts have been selected based on Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) scores. The following are the selected districts:
According to details, the uplift schemes in these districts will be in the areas of connectivity through roads, solarisation of off-grid areas, access to broadband services and internet, development of agri-livestock and mineral value-chain, dairy farming, tunnel farming, fish farming, the establishment of LPG terminals, investment in skill development and scholarship for students, and establishment of common border markets.
Reportedly, the federal and provincial governments will identify sub-projects based on in-depth assessment for identifying the local needs of the marginalised population. It was disclosed that such projects will be monitored through steering committees at the provincial and federal levels.
Iqra holds BS in International Relations and is passionate about writing engaging content on trending real estate topics. When not working, she is either spending time with family, shopping, or discussing shows & movies.
