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IT minister, Huawei discuss digital transformation for Gilgit-Baltistan

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IT minister, Huawei discuss digital transformation for Gilgit-Baltistan

ISLAMABAD, April 19 (ABC): Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Ghulam Abbas met a delegation of Huawei Technologies Pakistan to discuss opportunities for digital transformation and ICT development in Gilgit-Baltistan.

The minister visited Huawei’s Pakistan office, where both sides held detailed discussions on promoting information and communication technologies in the region, with a focus on youth development and digital infrastructure.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed initiatives to enhance digital literacy among the youth of Gilgit-Baltistan. The Huawei delegation expressed interest in supporting capacity-building efforts through its ICT Certification Program. The programme aims to equip young people with essential digital skills for emerging opportunities in the technology sector.

The delegation also sought the minister’s support in promoting the Prime Minister’s ICT Training Initiative in the region. The initiative is designed to help young people gain technical skills and contribute to the development of a skilled workforce.

Both sides also discussed the importance of technical and vocational training. They agreed that such programmes can create immediate employment opportunities and strengthen the region’s workforce.

In addition, the meeting reviewed opportunities to digitize key sectors of the Gilgit-Baltistan government. These sectors include tourism, healthcare, and mining. Officials noted that digital transformation can improve service delivery, enhance transparency, and increase operational efficiency.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue cooperation and take practical steps to strengthen the ICT landscape in Gilgit-Baltistan. Both sides reaffirmed their shared vision of expanding digital access and promoting innovation across the region.

Govt proposes Rs5.5bn sports projects in major cities

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Govt proposes Rs5.5bn sports projects in major cities

ISLAMABAD, April 17 (Wealth Pakistan): The Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination plans multiple sports infrastructure projects in major cities at a proposed cost of Rs5.5 billion.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the government has proposed a Rs3.5 billion project for the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) Coaching Centre in Skardu. The project will include a football ground, a hockey turf, a synthetic athletic track, tennis courts, and volleyball courts. It will also include an administrative block and allied infrastructure.

Skardu and Gilgit projects

The Skardu project forms the largest component of the plan. In addition, the ministry has planned construction work at Lalik Jan Hockey Stadium in Gilgit. This work includes installation of floodlights, construction of a retaining wall, and fencing. These upgrades will support night-time sports activities. The Gilgit project will cost Rs268.776 million.

Lahore and Peshawar facilities

In Lahore, the plan includes a new boxing gymnasium and upgraded cycling facilities at the PSB Coaching Centre. This component carries a proposed cost of Rs1.4 billion. Similarly, the government has proposed construction and improvement works at the PSB Coaching Centre in Peshawar. These upgrades aim to enhance athlete training capacity. The Peshawar component will cost Rs365.241 million.

PSDP allocations for 2026-27

The proposed PSDP 2026-27 allocations include Rs800 million for Skardu and Rs200 million for Gilgit. Lahore and Peshawar will each receive Rs150 million under the development plan.

The document shows that these projects form part of a broader strategy to expand and modernise sports infrastructure across Pakistan. The government plans to implement these projects in phases.

Boost to sports development

The proposed investment will improve existing facilities and create new opportunities for young athletes. It will especially benefit players in remote areas by providing access to standard training infrastructure.

The PSDP 2026-27 initiatives will promote sports culture, support talent development, and strengthen Pakistan’s performance in national and international competitions.

Over Rs73.5bn spent on 148 Balochistan projects under PSDP 2025-26

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Over Rs73.5bn spent on 148 Balochistan projects under PSDP 2025-26

ISLAMABAD, April 17 (Wealth Pakistan): The federal government spent Rs73.5 billion on 148 projects in Balochistan under PSDP 2025-26 by the end of March 2026.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the government allocated Rs206 billion for these projects in 2025-26. The total approved cost stands at Rs1.365 trillion. Out of 148 projects, 137 are ongoing and 11 are newly approved with a combined cost of Rs152.4 billion.

Ongoing projects dominate portfolio

The 137 ongoing projects form the bulk of the portfolio. They carry an approved cost of Rs1,212.1 billion. The government allocated Rs204.8 billion for these schemes in 2025-26. In contrast, the 11 new projects received a token allocation of Rs1.2 billion.

The Finance Division, in coordination with the Planning Commission, approved upfront one-line releases. These releases support executing ministries and divisions under a quarterly disbursement strategy for FY2025-26.

Sector-wise allocations

Sectoral data shows that the National Highway Authority leads the portfolio. It handles 19 projects worth Rs625.3 billion. Meanwhile, the Government of Balochistan manages 68 projects costing Rs233.9 billion through the Finance Division.

Other key contributors include the Water Resources Division, Power Division, and Higher Education Commission. Together, they reflect a diversified development approach.

Focus on provincial and regional development

Out of 148 projects, 80 are provincial in nature. These projects have a total cost of Rs413 billion, with Rs36 billion allocated for the current fiscal year. They aim to strengthen local infrastructure and improve service delivery across the province.

Regional development remains a key focus. In Gwadar, 22 projects with a total cost of Rs184 billion are underway. Similarly, Quetta hosts 15 projects costing Rs28 billion.

The Planning Commission stated that these initiatives will enhance connectivity and boost economic activity. They also aim to address long-standing development gaps in Balochistan in line with national priorities.

Rs5.36bn spent on 22 Gwadar projects under PSDP 2025-26

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Rs5.36bn spent on 22 Gwadar projects under PSDP 2025-26

ISLAMABAD, April 16 (Wealth Pakistan): The government has spent Rs5.36 billion so far in the current fiscal year on 22 development projects in Gwadar under PSDP 2025-26.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the federal government allocated Rs16.79 billion for these projects for the fiscal year 2025-26. The total cost of the 22 projects stands at Rs184.2 billion. These projects aim to transform Gwadar into a key economic and logistics hub. Authorities are implementing them at different stages.

Project scope and sectors

The project mix shows a diversified development approach. It covers infrastructure, energy, maritime, education, and social sectors. Major ongoing schemes include the Gwadar-Ratodero Road, the New Gwadar International Airport, and projects under the Gwadar Development Authority.

The New Gwadar International Airport is the largest project in the region. It has an approved cost of Rs54.98 billion. Authorities spent Rs42.72 billion on it up to June 2025. The project has a throw-forward of Rs12.26 billion. The government allocated Rs4 billion for 2025-26. It released Rs3.43 billion and utilized Rs2.34 billion by March 30, 2026.

Road and water projects

The Gwadar-Ratodero Road (M-8) project recorded an expenditure of Rs32.89 billion up to June 2025. It has a remaining throw-forward of Rs5.13 billion. The government allocated Rs3 billion for the current fiscal year. Utilization stood at Rs592 million by the end of March 2026.

The Shehzanik Dam project in Gwadar district has a total cost of Rs2.23 billion. Authorities spent Rs1.75 billion on it up to June 2025. The project has a throw-forward of Rs482 million. The allocation for 2025-26 stands at Rs220 million.

Rail, planning, and education initiatives

The rail connectivity project from Gwadar via Besima to Jacobabad has a total cost of Rs15.59 billion. The government allocated Rs10 million for the current fiscal year. Utilization reached Rs3 million by March 2026.

Under the Finance Division, the Gwadar Development Authority Business Plan has a total cost of Rs25 billion. The government allocated Rs250 million for the current year. It released and utilized Rs75 million.

The scholarship programme for Gwadar students has a total cost of Rs165 million. The government allocated Rs18 million for 2025-26. It released Rs9 million and utilized Rs5 million.

Maritime and research projects

The Gwadar Blue Economy Centre (Phase I) has a total cost of Rs1.50 billion. The government allocated Rs15 million for the current year. It released Rs5 million and utilized Rs2 million.

The Strengthening of Oceanographic Research Sub Station Gwadar project has a cost of Rs300 million. Authorities allocated Rs150 million. They released Rs74 million and utilized Rs6 million.

Projects with higher utilization

The Gwadar Safe City Project has a cost of Rs2.48 billion. The government allocated Rs1.5 billion for the current year. It released Rs1.02 billion and utilized the full amount.

The Fresh Water Treatment, Water Supply, and Distribution Project costs Rs11.20 billion. The government allocated Rs471 million. It released Rs142 million and utilized it fully.

Land and defence-related projects

The acquisition of 750 acres at Grandani Janubi has a cost of Rs3.92 billion. The government allocated Rs507 million. It released Rs449 million and utilized Rs390 million by March 2026.

The Project Management Cell for the Gwadar shipyard has a cost of Rs773 million. The government allocated Rs86 million. It released Rs65 million and utilized Rs22 million.

The FG Junior Public School Gwadar project received an allocation of Rs100 million. The government released Rs60 million so far.

OIC-COMSTECH, Huawei launch ICT Academy to boost digital skills in 57 OIC States

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OIC-COMSTECH, Huawei launch ICT Academy to boost digital skills in 57 OIC States

ISLAMABAD, April 15 (ABC): The OIC Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (OIC-COMSTECH) and Huawei Technologies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a joint ICT academy aimed at strengthening digital skills across OIC member states.

They signed the MoU at the OIC-COMSTECH Secretariat in Islamabad. At the same venue, officials also inaugurated the COMSTECH-Huawei ICT Academy. The initiative targets youth empowerment and aims to enhance digital learning across 57 OIC member and five observer states.

The newly established ICT academy features modern digital infrastructure. It enables virtual instruction, hands-on training, and real-time collaboration. As a result, students and professionals across the OIC region can access advanced learning opportunities.

Leadership Highlights Strategic Importance

Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, attended the ceremony as the chief guest. He described the initiative as a strategic step to strengthen Pakistan’s ICT sector. Moreover, he emphasised its role in promoting digital capacity-building across OIC countries.

Coordinator General OIC-COMSTECH Prof Dr Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary said the partnership with Huawei Technologies will advance digital self-reliance in member states. He added that access to modern technologies and training will enable youth to contribute to innovation-led economic development. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of collaboration in accelerating technological progress.

Huawei Pakistan CEO Ethan Sun said the company remains committed to supporting digital transformation through skill development initiatives. He noted that the ICT academy reflects Huawei’s focus on equipping young people with industry-relevant expertise. In addition, he underlined Huawei’s long-term engagement in developing digital talent.

Training, Certifications, and Global Collaboration

Huawei leadership also highlighted ongoing programmes such as “Seeds for the Future,” which aim to nurture digital talent. Through this initiative, the ICT academy will promote inclusive digital growth, enhance cybersecurity capabilities, and support sustainable technological development in OIC countries.

The academy will function as a hub for blended learning. It will provide access to Huawei’s global training ecosystem and deliver high-quality courses in emerging technologies. Consequently, learners will gain exposure to internationally recognised standards.

Under the partnership, the ICT academy will offer certifications in 5G, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, and Cybersecurity. These programmes will help bridge the global digital skills gap. At the same time, they will prepare young professionals for evolving industry demands.

International Participation and Closing Ceremony

The event concluded with a tour of the academy, where participants observed live demonstrations of digital learning technologies. Meanwhile, ambassadors and senior diplomats from Somalia, Malaysia, Morocco, Mauritius, Azerbaijan, Algeria, and Brunei Darussalam attended the ceremony. Representatives of international and national organisations also participated, reflecting broad global interest in the initiative.

KP plans 16 picnic spots, 9 tourist facilities to boost tourism

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KP plans 16 picnic spots, 9 tourist facilities to boost tourism

ISLAMABAD, April 14 (Wealth Pakistan): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has planned the development of 16 picnic spots and tourist facilitation services at nine destinations under its tourism development schemes.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, these initiatives are part of broader interventions being implemented across the province. The focus remains on Chitral under various tourism development programmes.

The documents state that the schemes include the construction of jeepable tracks in tourist-bearing areas. These tracks aim to improve access to different locations.

In addition, camping pod sites and rest houses are also included in the planned interventions. These facilities are intended to support tourists visiting remote and scenic areas.

Furthermore, the documents highlight the promotion of community-based accommodation facilities. This initiative aims to encourage local participation in tourism activities.

Tourist facilitation services are also planned at nine destinations. These services will complement the development of infrastructure, including picnic spots and access routes.

Moreover, the documents mention feasibility studies for tourism development projects. They also include the arrangement of events in the tourism and culture sector in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The documents further refer to initiatives linked to “Tirich Mir Year 2024–25.” These activities remain part of the province’s broader tourism framework.

In addition, the promotion of cultural and community-based activities has been included in tourism-related efforts.

According to the documents, coordination is ongoing with provincial line departments and district administrations. At the same time, engagement is being maintained with relevant federal ministries and organisations.

They further note that collaboration continues with national and international tourism stakeholders to support the implementation of these initiatives.

Rs140m tourism projects planned to boost hospitality sector

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Rs140m tourism projects planned to boost hospitality sector

ISLAMABAD, April 13 (Wealth Pakistan): The Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination has planned three tourism initiatives worth Rs140 million under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) 2026-27.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the government has allocated Rs70 million for capacity building of stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sector. The initiative focuses on improving service quality, enhancing professional standards, and aligning the sector with international best practices. It also aims to improve customer experience and strengthen overall service delivery.

The ministry has proposed another project worth Rs30 million to conduct a feasibility study for establishing an eco-friendly tourist resort in Islamabad. The study will explore sustainable tourism opportunities while ensuring environmental protection and efficient use of resources. This initiative reflects the increasing global focus on environmentally responsible tourism development.

In addition, the government has earmarked Rs40 million to establish modern tourist facilitation centres at Islamabad International Airport. These centres will provide essential services, information, and guidance to incoming tourists. The initiative aims to improve the travel experience at one of the country’s main entry points and create a positive first impression for visitors.

The three projects form part of a broader strategy to promote tourism through targeted planning and infrastructure development. The ministry aims to gradually strengthen the tourism sector by focusing on capacity building and service improvement.

Officials believe that these initiatives will help improve the overall tourism landscape in Pakistan. Better services and improved facilities are expected to boost visitor confidence and attract more tourists in the coming years.

The execution of these projects will also support long-term growth in the tourism and hospitality sector. According to the documents, the initiatives are expected to contribute to sectoral development by June 2028.

KP spends Rs127.53m on ADB food security project in flood-hit districts

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KP spends Rs127.53m on ADB food security project in flood-hit districts

By Ayesha Saba
ISLAMABAD, April 12 (Wealth Pakistan): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has spent Rs127.533 million during the current fiscal year on an ADB-funded Food Security Support Project in flood-affected districts, reports Wealth Pakistan.

Project scope and timeline

The Agriculture Department is implementing the project, and it will continue until June 30, 2028. The project has a total commitment of $79 million. So far, authorities have disbursed $15.10 million (19%), while $64.30 million (81%) remains to be released.

Meanwhile, the local share stands at Rs1.427 billion. In addition, the foreign cost amounts to Rs23.698 billion.

Financial progress and allocation

So far, the project has recorded a cumulative expenditure of Rs948.268 million. At the same time, the government has allocated Rs6.802 billion for the fiscal year 2025-26.

Climate-smart agriculture initiatives

Under this project, authorities are promoting climate-smart and resilient farming practices. They are providing fertilizers and seeds, including wheat, rice, and DAP, on a 50% cost-sharing basis.

Moreover, officials are training farmers in the safe and efficient use of fertilizers and climate-adaptive seeds. As a result, farmers can improve productivity and reduce risks linked to climate change.

Support for female farmers

The programme also targets women in agriculture. It provides vegetable packages and training in kitchen gardening, food processing, and preservation.

As part of this effort, authorities plan to train around 53,000 female farmers. Therefore, the initiative aims to strengthen household food security and rural livelihoods.

Institutional capacity and digital systems

In addition, the project focuses on strengthening institutional capacity and disaster preparedness. Authorities are developing a unified digital database of farmers in non-project districts.

Furthermore, they are introducing an e-subsidy system to improve transparency and efficiency.

Additional components

The project also supports the seed industry. For this purpose, authorities have proposed a speed breeding facility.

At the same time, they are introducing an ICT-based pest surveillance system for plant protection. The plan also includes support for project management and operational activities.

Procurement and approvals

Currently, officials are revising the PC-I. However, they are still awaiting No Objection Letters (NOLs) from the Asian Development Bank.

Meanwhile, they have submitted revised technical and budget evaluation reports for DAP fertilizer procurement to the ADB. They have also shared revised proposals for individual consultants and an IT firm.

In the next step, authorities will re-advertise wheat seed procurement. In addition, they are waiting for the ADB’s response on CSO-1 regarding either the issuance of an NOL or the reopening of the process.

The Chief Agriculture Department is now reviewing the proposal for the speed breeding facility.

Expected impact

Officials expect that the project will improve food security in flood-hit districts. Moreover, it will strengthen agricultural resilience against climate shocks.

Overall, the initiative will help increase farmers’ productivity. Consequently, it will support sustainable agricultural growth and improve rural livelihoods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

EOBI portfolio reaches Rs691.91bn as fixed-income assets lead returns

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EOBI portfolio reaches Rs691.91bn as fixed-income assets lead returns

By Moaaz Manzoor

ISLAMABAD, April 12 (Wealth Pakistan): The Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution’s (EOBI) investment portfolio reached Rs691.91 billion by February 28, 2026. Fixed-income instruments continued to dominate the fund’s asset mix and income generation, according to documents available with Wealth Pakistan.

Fixed-income assets dominate portfolio

The EOBI holds Rs592.12 billion in fixed-income assets. These account for 85.58% of the total portfolio. Pakistan Investment Bonds (PIBs) form the largest share at Rs540.35 billion. Accrued profit on PIBs stands at Rs49.61 billion, while corporate fixed income totals Rs2.16 billion.

This allocation reflects the institution’s focus on stable and predictable income streams. The strategy supports long-term pension liabilities.

Equity exposure remains limited

Equity investments form a smaller portion of the portfolio. Available-for-sale equity stands at Rs26.38 billion. Held-for-trading equity amounts to Rs14.86 billion.

Total equity holdings reach Rs41.24 billion. This represents 5.96% of the overall portfolio.

Real estate provides additional support

Real estate is the third major component of the investment base. Properties are valued at Rs42.36 billion. Real estate projects account for Rs16.20 billion.

Combined real estate exposure stands at Rs58.55 billion. This equals 8.46% of the total portfolio.

Income performance exceeds targets

The documents show strong income generation from these assets. For FY2025-26, total investment income is budgeted at Rs78.89 billion.

From July 2025 to February 2026, actual income reached Rs56.45 billion. The budgeted figure for the same period was Rs52.59 billion.

Fixed income leads earnings

Fixed-income investments generated the largest share of income. They produced Rs47.15 billion during July–February. The budget target for this segment was Rs45.39 billion.

Equity also contributed to earnings. Dividend income stood at Rs4.79 billion. Capital gains reached Rs3.75 billion. Total equity income came to Rs8.54 billion.

Real estate added steady returns. Rental income reached Rs764 million during the period. This matched the budgeted figure.

Receipts and expenditures overview

The receipts and expenditures statement provides further details. Total receipts from July 2025 to January 2026 stood at Rs96.68 billion. Budget estimates for the period were Rs99.00 billion.

Contribution revenues reached Rs48.61 billion. Investment income stood at Rs48.07 billion. This shows that investment returns now nearly match contribution inflows.

Total expenditures for the period came to Rs44.62 billion. Pension disbursements accounted for Rs42.01 billion.

Management expenses remained low. They stood at 1.40% of receipts, below the budgeted 2.22%.

Portfolio structure supports sustainability

The portfolio structure highlights the role of fixed-income assets in sustaining the fund. These investments generate most of the returns and support pension payments. Equity and real estate continue to play a supplementary role in overall performance.

Daycare centres proposed in ICT, AJK, GB under Rs2.87bn human rights project

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Daycare centres proposed in ICT, AJK, GB under Rs2.87bn human rights project

ISLAMABAD, April 10 (Wealth Pakistan): The Ministry of Human Rights has proposed setting up daycare centres in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) under a Rs2.87 billion project to promote human rights and women’s development.

According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the initiative falls under the “Umbrella PC-I: Human Rights & Women Development Initiatives.” The project includes several components to strengthen institutions, promote gender equality, and support working women.

Daycare centres for working women

The proposal allocates around Rs570 million for establishing daycare centres in ICT, AJK, and GB. These centres will provide safe childcare facilities, especially for women working in public-sector institutions.

The initiative aims to help women balance work and family responsibilities. It also seeks to increase female participation in the workforce. The document shows that the Departmental Development Working Party (DDWP) approved this component in April 2025.

Federal Institute of Human Rights

The project also proposes setting up the Federal Institute of Human Rights (FIHR) with an estimated cost of about Rs1.5 billion. The institute will serve as a national platform for research, training, and policy development in the human rights sector.

It will organise training programmes, seminars, and conferences. It will also support evidence-based policymaking and improve coordination among institutions.

Gender equality programme

Another key component is the Gender Equality and Women Empowerment Programme, with an estimated allocation of around Rs800 million. This programme will promote awareness of women’s rights and strengthen gender-responsive policies.

It will also improve institutional mechanisms for the protection and empowerment of women. In addition, it will encourage community-level engagement on gender issues.

Project impact

Once approved, the project will strengthen Pakistan’s human rights framework. It will also address structural barriers faced by women through practical steps, including access to childcare facilities.

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