PM Shehbaz Sharif Announces 100MW Power Supply and Rs1bn Fund for Gilgit-Baltistan

In a significant move aimed at enhancing the living standards and educational opportunities in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a power supply of 100 megawatts and a merit-based endowment fund of Rs1 billion for university students. This announcement was made during a special meeting of the GB cabinet, which took place during the Prime Minister's daylong visit to the region.

The Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction with the timely completion of the Bubar Model Village, a project he inaugurated to provide housing for those affected by the devastating floods in 2022. He emphasized the importance of establishing educational institutions, playgrounds, and power transmission facilities in the Ghizer district, highlighting the government's commitment to improving infrastructure and services in the area.

In addition to the immediate power supply, the Prime Minister's announcement of the Rs1 billion merit-based endowment fund is expected to significantly benefit students at Baltistan University and Karakorum University. This initiative aims to support higher education and ensure that deserving students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister revealed plans for the establishment of Daanish Schools in GB, similar to those in Punjab, which are designed to provide quality education to children in underprivileged areas. He reiterated his government's dedication to the uplift and welfare of the people of GB, recalling his previous contributions to the education sector during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Punjab.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister also discussed the importance of cooperation between provincial and federal governments for economic stability. He noted positive developments in the national economy, including the stock exchange surpassing the 92,000 mark, an increase in remittances, and a rise in tax return filers, alongside a reduction in inflation.

Moreover, the Prime Minister acknowledged the vital role played by all provinces, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and GB, in national development. He emphasized his government's special focus on the uplift of GB and the merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

In a bid to promote tourism in GB, the Prime Minister mentioned that the Qatari government has shown interest in investing in the region's tourism sector. This could potentially lead to increased economic opportunities and job creation for the local population.

The meeting was attended by several federal ministers and members of the GB cabinet, all of whom are committed to the development and progress of the region. The initiatives announced by the Prime Minister are expected to bring about positive changes in the lives of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.

The Prime Minister's announcements reflect a proactive approach towards addressing the needs of Gilgit-Baltistan. By focusing on education, infrastructure, and economic development, the government aims to empower the people of this beautiful region, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities necessary for a brighter future. As these initiatives unfold, it will be crucial to monitor their implementation and impact on the local communities.