ISLAMABAD (HRNW): In a major move to support the Prime Minister’s austerity campaign, the National Assembly Secretariat has deposited Rs 472.1 million back into the national exchequer. The decision comes after a comprehensive review of the current fiscal year’s budget and expenditures, aimed at reducing the financial burden on the state.
Key Austerity Measures and Savings
Under the directives of Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, the Secretariat has implemented several strict cost-cutting measures:
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Salary Deductions: A total of Rs 21 million was deducted from the salaries of Members of the National Assembly (MNAs). These funds have been redirected to the Prime Minister’s Austerity Fund 2026.
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Vehicle Grounding: In a significant step to conserve fuel and energy, 75% of official vehicles assigned to the Secretariat have been grounded. This move aligns with the broader national strategy to deal with the ongoing global fuel crisis.
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Solar Energy Utilization: The Secretariat is now meeting its electricity needs through the Green Parliament Solar System, further reducing the utility bill burden on the treasury.
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Staff Rationalization: To minimize operational costs, only 200 essential employees are currently on active duty at the National Assembly.
Future Outlook and Targets
The National Assembly Secretariat has mapped out a plan to achieve total savings of up to Rs 2 billion by the end of the fiscal year through rationalized spending and enhanced resource management.
“The elected representatives have set a precedent by voluntarily reducing their perks and salaries,” stated Speaker Ayaz Sadiq. He emphasized that additional non-essential expenditures will be slashed in the coming weeks to further contribute to the national treasury.
Government circles have lauded these initiatives as a commendable example of prudent financial management during a period of global economic volatility and regional conflict.
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