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PM Shehbaz Sharif Announces Ramazan Relief Package Without Utility Stores
PM Shehbaz unveils Ramazan Relief Package without Utility Stores to curb corruption and ensure quality commodities through BISP. Govt eyes economic growth amidst declining inflation and key Saudi agreements.
ND
by News Desk
2025-02-04
PM Shehbaz Sharif Announces Ramazan Relief Package Without Utility Stores

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Tuesday that the government would unveil this year’s Ramazan Relief Package without the involvement of the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) to prevent corruption and ensure the distribution of high-quality commodities.

The decision follows widespread complaints last year about the mismanagement and substandard products distributed by USC during Ramazan. The premier stated that the package would be implemented through the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) instead.

“I had asked many months ago that this cannot go on with the Utility Stores,” the prime minister said during a federal cabinet meeting.

Shutdown of Utility Stores Corporation
In January, the federal cabinet formed a high-level committee to strategize the shutdown of USC operations nationwide. Although USC’s budget allocation nearly doubled in the previous fiscal year, proposals have been considered to close around 1,000 loss-making outlets out of the 5,130 stores nationwide.

Focus on Economic Growth Amid Declining Inflation
The premier expressed optimism about the country’s economic trajectory, citing a significant reduction in inflation. According to PM Shehbaz, inflation had reached a nine-year low of 2.4% in January due to declining prices of perishable food items.

The premier highlighted the government's efforts to achieve economic growth despite challenges. “All of our energies will be focused on economic growth. Just like other targets, we will achieve this too,” he said.

He also commended the finance ministry’s efforts over the past 11 months to curb inflation. However, concerns remain about the rising prices of sugar, vegetables, and edible oils in the domestic market.

Key Agreements with Saudi Arabia
PM Shehbaz also discussed two recent agreements with Saudi Arabia worth $1.61 billion. These include a $1.2 billion deferred oil payment agreement and a $41 million concessional loan for a gravity-flow water scheme in Mansehra.

Security and Anti-Terrorism Efforts
The premier paid tribute to security personnel injured in anti-terrorism operations in Kalat, Balochistan. He acknowledged the sacrifices of soldiers, police, FC, and Rangers who continue to protect the nation.

Regarding the recent polio vaccination drive, the prime minister mourned the loss of a security personnel member in Jamrud and lauded the tireless efforts of polio teams across the country.

Tax Reforms for IMF Commitments
The prime minister thanked Sindh and Balochistan for approving the agricultural tax law, fulfilling a key requirement of the IMF’s $7 billion agreement.

The Sindh Assembly recently passed the Sindh Agricultural Income Tax Bill, joining Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in supporting tax reforms.
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