In an exclusive interview with Radio Pakistan, he said the revenue collected from excise duty on tobacco and beverages will be spent on health sector.

He said that enhanced taxation on cigarettes will also discourage use of smoking, adding, the previous government decreased taxes on cigarettes instead of increasing them and we are reviewing it.

He said that reduction in taxes on the cigarettes has resulted in increasing use of tobacco by the adults.

Zafar Mirza said the federal government has mad done a comprehensive planning to totally transform the healthcare system in the areas falling under its jurisdiction.

He said under this program, health services will also be provided in the schools to facilitate maximum  students.

When asked about the prevalence of polio virus, he said Pakistan has gone a long way in bringing down the polio cases.

“The Government is committed to this cause and will ensure the elimination of polio in Pakistan,” said Dr Zafar Mirza.