PESHAWAR– Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the formation of a committee to review Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s share in the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, following concerns raised by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.
Addressing tribal elders and local leaders during a jirga in Peshawar, the prime minister said the federal government would examine the matter with seriousness and ensure fairness in the distribution of national resources. He praised the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for their historical support to Pakistan and their ongoing sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
“The people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are brave and resilient,” he said. ” Their role in the 1947 referendum and their continued commitment to Pakistan’s integrity is unforgettable.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the province’s contributions to national security, especially in the aftermath of the Army Public School tragedy. He noted that all provinces had unanimously agreed to allocate an additional one percent of the NFC Award to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for its role in counterterrorism efforts.
He stated that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had received over 700bn rupees in federal funds over various tenures and assured continued support until the complete elimination of terrorism in the region.
“We will equip the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police with modern tools and raise a new force to meet emerging challenges,” he added. ” The nation recognises the province’s frontline role in the war against terrorism.”
The prime minister also said the federal government was carefully reviewing the recommendations presented during the jirga, calling them constructive and valuable.
Touching on national defence, Shehbaz Sharif condemned recent threats from India and warned against any further hostilities. He claimed that Pakistan’s response to previous Indian actions was decisive and would serve as a lasting reminder.
“India has issued threats to block our water and attacked innocent civilians,” he said. ” If provoked again, we will respond accordingly. The world has witnessed how our armed forces, under the leadership of the field marshal, defended the country with courage.”
Shehbaz Sharif concluded by saying that Pakistan’s armed forces and people remain united in defence of the nation, and that international partners had also appreciated Pakistan’s resilience in times of conflict.
The announcement to form a committee on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s share in the NFC Award comes amid growing calls from provincial leaders for a more equitable distribution of resources in light of the province’s ongoing security and development challenges.
