Gilgit-Baltistan: PM body to review development proposals of PML-N MPs

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday constituted a high-level committee to review development proposals submitted by PML-N lawmakers from Gilgit-Baltistan, underlining the federal government’s focus on the region’s progress.

The committee, headed by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and comprising Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam and Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah, will examine recommendations presented by GB Assembly members and submit its report to the prime minister shortly.

The decision to form the panel was taken during a meeting between the prime minister and a delegation of newly elected PML-N members of the GB Assembly, who presented proposals for the region’s uplift.

Addressing the delegation, the prime minister said the federal government was committed to accelerating development through improved infrastructure, communication networks, energy projects, education and healthcare facilities, tourism promotion and job creation.

“Development of Gilgit-Baltistan is among the foremost priorities of the federal government,” he said, adding that steps were being taken to address people’s concerns and improve their living standards.

He praised the people of GB for their longstanding commitment to Pakistan, saying they had consistently demonstrated patriotism, loyalty and national unity.

He said elected representatives had an important role in highlighting the needs and priorities of their constituencies, adding that the government was focused on providing relief and serving citizens without discrimination.

Highlighting the region’s potential, he said its natural resources, tourism opportunities and mineral wealth would be harnessed to strengthen the local economy.

He said quality education, technical training and employment opportunities for youth remained key priorities of the government.

He said construction work on four Danish Schools in GB was nearing completion, with classes expected to begin next year. He also noted progress on a solar energy project aimed at generating 100 megawatts of electricity.

He said the federal government was utilising all available resources to ensure the timely completion of development projects in the region.

Discussing climate challenges, the prime minister said an early warning system for climate change and glacier-related risks had been installed to provide timely alerts to vulnerable communities.

He stressed that effective coordination between federal and local leadership was essential for improving governance, resolving public concerns and ensuring transparency.

Describing the proposals of GB lawmakers as important, the prime minister urged them to continue playing a constructive role and expressed confidence that collective efforts would lead the region towards greater development, prosperity and sustainable stability.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026