Major Government Shake-Up: Five Ministries, Including IT, to be Dissolved by July 30
The federal government of Pakistan is set to undergo a significant administrative overhaul with the planned dissolution of five key ministries, including the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications. This strategic move is aimed at streamlining government operations and reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Insiders have revealed that a detailed plan has been prepared to abolish the ministries of IT and Telecom, Industry and Production, Health, Kashmir Affairs, and SAFRON. The proposed changes are expected to take effect by July 30, signaling a major transformation in the government’s organizational structure.
The future of the employees currently working in these ministries is a major concern. To address this, several suggestions have been proposed. One option on the table is to offer a golden handshake package, providing financial compensation to the affected employees and facilitating their transition out of government service.
Alternatively, there is a proposal to integrate the employees of the dissolved ministries into other existing ministries. This approach seeks to preserve the valuable experience and skills of the workforce while minimizing disruptions to their careers.
In addition, the plan includes the potential creation of a surplus pool for the affected employees. This pool would temporarily house employees until they can be reassigned to other departments. This flexible solution aims to ensure that the government’s human resources are used efficiently and effectively.
The Institutional Reforms Cell has spearheaded the development of these proposals, working in collaboration with the relevant ministries. The goal is to enhance government efficiency by eliminating redundant functions and optimizing resource allocation. Consultation with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will also take place to discuss the compensation packages for the employees, ensuring that the reforms are financially sustainable and meet international standards.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will be briefed on the proposals, and a final decision will be made after his review. The comprehensive briefing will cover all aspects of the proposed reforms, including the dissolution of the ministries and the future of the employees. The aim is to finalize the decision regarding the abolition of the five ministries and the fate of their employees by July 30.
This restructuring effort is part of a broader initiative by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to rightsize the government. The Institutional Reforms Cell was instructed to prepare a report on rightsizing within a week, reflecting the urgency and importance of this project. The reforms are seen as a necessary step to make the government more efficient and responsive to the needs of the public.
