QUETTA: Balochistan’s Provincial Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani has stated that the province’s development budget of Rs 250 billion is far too little to develop 44 percent of the country, adding that if the port and mining sectors become fully functional, Balochistan’s financial position could significantly improve.
Speaking to journalists in Quetta, Nosherwani said the budget for the next financial year will also be surplus in line with the terms of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He further announced that under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, Balochistan will formally demand that both poverty levels and geographical area be taken into account, not just population.
“The provinces are trying to make a decision in the interest of Pakistan,” he said.
On the subject of austerity, the minister revealed that the Balochistan government has limited the number of vehicles used by current ministers as part of an austerity campaign. “The government is moving towards electric vehicles,” he said, adding that a decision will also be implemented regarding the return of vehicles used by former ministers and other officials.
Nosherwani noted that meetings of groups established under the NFC Award have been held, and based on progress made so far, there are possibilities of further improvement. However, he identified poverty as the most pressing problem facing Balochistan.
“We are still working according to the data of 1998,” he lamented. “We want the area of Balochistan to be taken into account in the new formula. We will present our position in the upcoming meeting.”
Acknowledging that all provinces face challenges, he cited Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s difficulties regarding the former FATA districts. “At present, all of us are trying to ensure that all the provinces come together in the national interest so that its benefits reach Pakistan.”
Responding to a question, Nosherwani said Balochistan does not face any difficulties in preparing the budget for the next financial year. “Efforts are being made to remove the shortcomings under the leadership of Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti.” He rejected the notion that the province is self-sufficient, stating, “The most important industries of the province are mining and ports. If both these things work, then the financial position of the province can improve. Currently, we are looking towards the devisable pool.”
The minister added that last year too, a surplus budget was presented, but other requirements — including those of the IMF — remain. “Efforts will be made not to go into deficit,” he affirmed.
Nosherwani also highlighted that the progress of development works in Balochistan has improved due to continuous monitoring of schemes. In the next budget, priority will be given to other sectors besides education and health. However, he reiterated: “Rs 250 billion is too little to develop 44 percent of the country.”
