Gilgit: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during his day-long visit to Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) on Wednesday, unveiled a series of key development initiatives aimed at boosting the region’s infrastructure, education, and economic growth.
Chairing a special meeting of the GB Cabinet, the Prime Minister made several important announcements, including the immediate supply of 100 megawatts of electricity to Gilgit-Baltistan, which is expected to significantly alleviate the region’s energy challenges.
In a major boost to education, PM Shehbaz announced a Rs1 billion merit-based endowment fund for students at Baltistan University and Karakoram University. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance and foster academic excellence among students in the region.
Highlighting the federal government’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure in GB, the Prime Minister also revealed plans to establish Daanish Schools in the region, following the successful model implemented in Punjab province. These schools will provide quality education to children, particularly in remote areas.
PM Shehbaz further directed the GB administration to prioritize the development of educational institutions, playgrounds, power transmission lines, and other essential infrastructure in Ghizer district, a region that will benefit from the government’s ongoing development initiatives.
Reflecting on his previous tenure as Chief Minister of Punjab, PM Shehbaz recalled the Rs1 billion that his government had allocated to uplift GB’s education sector, further cementing his focus on educational development in the region.
The Prime Minister also expressed his satisfaction over the timely completion of the Bubar Model Village, which he had previously inaugurated. This project provides housing for people displaced by the devastating floods of 2022 and is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to aid flood-affected communities.
Tourism Development and Economic Cooperation
PM Shehbaz emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to boost tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan, noting that the Qatari government had expressed interest in investing in the region’s tourism sector. This potential collaboration could significantly enhance GB’s economic prospects and job creation.
The Prime Minister also praised the role of provincial governments, including those of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as Gilgit-Baltistan, in supporting national development and economic stability.
In his address, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the welfare and uplift of Gilgit-Baltistan and highlighted the region’s importance in Pakistan’s broader national development strategy.
Federal Ministers Attend Meeting
The meeting was attended by federal ministers Ahsan Iqbal, Attaullah Tarar, Amir Muqam, and Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, along with members of the GB Cabinet and senior government officials.
The Prime Minister’s visit underscores the federal government’s continued focus on addressing the needs of Gilgit-Baltistan, ensuring sustainable development, and fostering regional cooperation for long-term prosperity.
