ISLAMABAD:
The government on Tuesday approved an additional budget for the army to procure bullet-proof vehicles for transporting schoolchildren in Balochistan, according to an official document released by the Finance Ministry.
The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet, in a meeting chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, approved a supplementary budget of Rs 2,100 crore after reviewing a summary submitted by the Defense Division.
The ECC approved the summary of a supplementary technical grant for the procurement of bulletproof vehicles, taking into account operational imperatives and security requirements. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had already authorized allocation of funds for the procurement of 38 bulletproof roller coasters for schoolchildren in Balochistan.
The military school chain, the Army Public Schools (APS), has been the target of attacks in the past. Children of military personnel and civilians study in these schools throughout the country. The major terrorist attack perpetrated in 2014 against the APS left 144 children dead and another 114 injured.
The ECC was informed that the allocation of Rs 2.1 billion would be additional and exceed the regular defense budget for the current fiscal year. The National Assembly had approved a defense budget of Rs 2.55 trillion. However, some operational needs of the military are often met outside of the regular budget.
Meanwhile, the ECC approved a supplementary grant of Rs 167.5 million as cash reward for the Pakistan U-19 men’s cricket team, recognizing its outstanding performance and international achievements, according to the Ministry of Finance. Each member of the under-19 team will receive Rs 10 million, while seven referees will receive Rs 2.5 million each.
Pakistan dominated all three formats and thrashed arch-rivals India by 191 runs in the final of the U-19 Asia Cup, emphatically claiming the prestigious title. The victory also marked redemption for Pakistan, who had suffered a tough defeat against the same opponent in the group stage and reached the final as underdogs against an undefeated Indian team.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb observed that this recognition of the cricket team not only recognizes sporting excellence but also encourages young talents who represent the country on international platforms.
Initially, the ECC offered Fateha for the departed soul of Dr Shamshad Akhtar, former Finance Minister and former Governor of State Bank of Pakistan. Paying tribute, Aurangzeb acknowledged her distinguished service and noted that her contributions went beyond her role as caretaker minister.
He highlighted that key tax policy and institutional reforms subsequently implemented were conceptualized during his tenure and noted that his leadership and vision would continue to positively impact economic governance. The ECC expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and colleagues.
Dr. Shamshad was known for her dedication and practical approach. She had served on the boards of numerous government companies and also served as Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations.
