NA body discusses progress on privatisation of ZTBL, DISCOs

ISLAMABAD: A parliamentary panel on Tuesday discussed the progress on the privatization of the Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) and Distribution Companies (DISCOs).

The National Assembly Standing Committee on Privatization met at the Parliament House under the chairmanship of Muhammad Farooq Sattar.

The committee reviewed the implementation status of its previous recommendations and sought updates from the ministry/depart-ments and organizations concerned.

It emphasized the need for timely and effective implementation of its recommendations and directed the quarters concerned to ensure prompt provision of complete, accurate, and updated information, along with necessary follow-up action.

The committee was given a comprehensive briefing on the current status and proposed course of action regarding Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL).

The committee was informed that the federal cabinet had approved the inclusion of ZTBL in the Privatisation Programme (2024–29) on August 13, 2024, following which the Privatisation Commission Board initiated the process of its privatization.

The NA body also considered matters relating to the proposed privatization of Distribution Companies (DISCOs) and sought detailed information on the progress, process, and related developments.

The panel underscored the importance of transparency, due diligence, and strict adherence to prescribed rules and procedures throughout the privatization process. It further recommended that, in the event of privatization, the employment status, service rights, and legitimate interests of existing employees be fully protected in accordance with the applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026