The National Assembly continued discussion on the budget for the year 2023-24.
At the outset, Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervaiz expressed deep grief and sorrow over loss of precious lives in tragic incident of capsizing boat off the coast of Greece.
Chairing the session of National Assembly, he also expressed concerns over the death of migrants including those from Pakistan.
Participating in the debate, Riaz ul Haq said insignificant funds have been allocated in the budget for the construction of water reservoirs. He stressed that construction of dams should be prioritized to address the issue of water shortage.
Shagufta Jamani said special focus should be given to the education sector and teaching moral values to our youth.
Dr Nisar Ahmad Cheema was appreciative of the exemptions given to the agro based industry in the budget as well as solarization of agricultural tube-wells.
Zulfiqar Ali Behan said it is a pro agriculture budget which will benefit the country in the long term. He commended the increase in the salaries of employees.
Mohsin Dawar said political stability is a must to take the country in the right economic direction. He said special focus should be given to improve law and order situation in the tribal districts.
Riaz Mazari emphasized the promotion of education in South Punjab through establishment of educational institutions including the universities.
Shahida Akhtar Ali suggested that Shuhada package is also given to the motorway police as is being given to other forces. She said more funds should be allocated for the NDMA to effectively deal with natural disasters.
Dr Darshan said relief has been extended to the masses in the budget regardless of dire economic situation.
Sikandar Ali said prices of essential commodities should be brought down. He said more subsidy should be given to the consumers in the gas and power tariffs.
Saira Bano said whilst increase in the salaries of government employees is welcomed, but the government should also pay attention to address the plight of those serving in the private sector.
Others who spoke on the occasion included Nauman Islam Sheikh, James Iqbal and Shakeela Khalid.
The National Assembly today passed a resolution urging the government to transfer the funds allocated for the community development schemes to the non-lapsable account by the end of this year to ensure completion of these schemes.
The resolution moved by Minister for Water Resources Khurshid Ahmad Shah said this will also help save the national exchequer from a big loss.
The House will now meet again on Monday at 11:00 am.
Source: Radio Pakistan