Minister for Defence Chaudhry Ahmed Mukhtar informed the National Assembly on Friday that the government provided five percent rebate to all Armed Forces serving personnel (married) living with families in government/hired accommodation in the Cantt, on all items purchased from Canteen Stores Department (CSD).
In a written reply, he informed the House that there are total of 111 Canteen Stores Department (CSD) Outlets operating in major cities of Pakistan. The CSD is a Non-Government commercial concern under the control of Ministry of Defence for the welfare of the Armed Forces personnel. CSD is passing on 6-8 percent profit to all of its consumers by providing items at rates lower than the market, as a welfare measure. In addition, 5 percent rebate is being extended to all Armed Forces serving personnel (married) living with families in government/hired accommodation in the Cantt, on all items purchased from CSD.
Responding to another question, Minister for Defence said that the MSA regularly monitors the activities of Pakistan fishing boats/trawlers along the EEZ through surveillance by aircraft and surface units. Additionally, Pakistani fishermen community is being warned frequently through letters and by holding meetings with the stakeholders to refrain from venturing into Indian EEZ and adjoining creek area. Moreover, Operation HOSHIAR-I and HOSHIAR-II were also conducted in December 2009 and April 2010 respectively to direct Pakistani fishermen to own EEZ through MSA units at sea.
It is further stated that apprehension of Pakistani fishing boats on charges/accusation of ingression by Indian Coast Guard and Border Security Forces (whenever reported) is pursued with DG ICG during weekly hotline conversation between DG MSA and DG ICG. However, during investigations ground realities reveal that most of these boats are picked from Pakistani creek areas.
An awareness campaign programme for fishermen community of Sindh and Balochistan was also conducted in December 2009 and January 2010, respectively by MSA to educate the fishermen community regarding various issues including crossing of maritime border (EEZ).
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