Islamabad , June 24, 2023: The National Assembly was informed today that loans worth thirty billion rupees have been given to fifty thousand youth under the Prime Minister Youth Program over the last five months.
Special Assistant on Youth Affairs Shaza Fatima Khawaja, rising on a point of order, highlighted the initiatives taken by the present government to create opportunities for the youth.
She said it is the first time that loans have also been given in the agriculture sector including for seed, fertilizers and purchase of other agricultural inputs.
Shaza Fatima said training has been provided to sixty thousand youth in various areas including Information Technology, whilst training of another forty thousand youth is in progress.
The Special Assistant said the budget for the next fiscal year envisages allocation of eighty billion rupees for special initiatives. Under this, ten billion rupees have been allocated for laptop scheme, ten billion rupees for soft loans and five billion rupees each for green revolution fund, women empowerment, IT and skills development. She said one hundred thousand laptops will be distributed amongst the students this year on merit.
The Special Assistant said sports are also being promoted to engage the youth in healthy activities.
Responding to the points of members, Minister for Water Resources Khurshid Shah said at present sufficient water is available to meet the requirements of the provinces. He said Balochistan is being provided as per their demand and capacity.
The National Assembly today unanimously passed a resolution acknowledging the contribution of international organizations, civil society and the international Diaspora of Pakistan in the fight against climate change and their assistance in rehabilitation of vulnerable communities affected by climate induced disaster.
The resolution was moved by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Romina Khurshid Alam.
The resolution recognized the urgent need for global cooperation to combat climate change and mitigate its adverse impacts.
The resolution emphasized the importance of collective actions to protect and uplift the vulnerable communities in the face of climate related challenges.
The House expressed deep appreciation to Islamic Relief Worldwide as well as the United Nations for their vital role in steering Pakistan’s climate action. Their initiatives have supported development of climate resilient infrastructure, enhanced disaster risk management systems and promoted sustainable livelihoods.
The House encouraged the Government of Pakistan to strengthen collaboration with international organizations, leveraging their expertise and resources, to enhance country’s climate change mitigation policies and disaster risk reduction strategies. It also called upon the international organizations to continue supporting Pakistan’s efforts to tackle climate change through knowledge sharing.
The resolution recognized the invaluable contributions made by Pakistani philanthropists abroad and within Pakistan towards fostering national economic growth, strengthening relations between the nation and its diaspora.
The House strongly advocated for the integration of gender mainstreaming and inclusivity in all climate-related interventions.