PM Shehbaz Sharif Orders New Ramadan Package Without Utility Stores to Combat Corruption

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Tuesday that the government will distribute a Ramadan package without involving utility stores, in a bid to address corruption and ensure the delivery of quality goods. During a federal cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister directed the Ministry of National Food Security and Research to oversee the initiative and manage the distribution process directly.

The decision follows numerous complaints last year about the effectiveness of the Ramadan package distributed through Utility Stores. PM Shehbaz emphasized that removing utility stores from the equation would help eliminate low-quality products and corruption.

Sources revealed that the government plans to distribute the Ramadan package as cash, targeting underserved populations across Pakistan, with assistance from the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).

An Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) has also been formed to finalize the recommendations for shutting down the Utility Stores Corporation (USC), which will be privatized in the future. This committee operates under rule 17(3) of the Rules of Business, 1973.

Additionally, PM Shehbaz discussed a significant agreement with Saudi Arabia, securing a $1.2 billion oil facility on deferred payments for one year, which he believes will bolster Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves. He also highlighted a $41 million funding from the Saudi Development Fund for a water project in Hazara.

On Kashmir Solidarity Day, which will be observed on February 5, PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who continue their struggle for freedom from Indian occupation.

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