In a significant move, the government of Islamabad declared on Tuesday its decision to either abolish or reallocate 65 departments to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. The Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, during a press conference, highlighted that this initiative is a key component of the government’s strategic plan to reduce its operational size and optimize resource allocation.
Details of the Downsizing Plan
The restructuring plan involves the reduction of the government’s scale by reviewing 10 key ministries. Out of the total 65 departments targeted, 40 will be dismantled in the first phase, with 28 of these either being completely shut down, privatized, or delegated to provincial authorities. This move is expected to significantly reshape the operational landscape of the government.
Impact on Major Ministries
The sweeping reforms will touch upon various ministries, including prominent ones like the Ministry of Defence and the Judiciary. No exemptions have been granted as all ministries are under scrutiny, with a specific focus on minimizing redundancies and improving service delivery. This plan is overseen by the Cabinet Committee on Rightsizing, which is tasked with the methodical evaluation of all 43 ministries.
Financial Implications and Budget Considerations
With a budget allocation of Rs876 billion for the fiscal year, the rightsizing efforts are designed not just for cost-cutting but also for fiscal prudence. However, the finance minister refrained from disclosing specific savings expected from the closure of the reviewed entities. The comprehensive review encompasses 400 entities under these ministries, signifying a broad and deep approach to the rightsizing efforts.
Also Read: Affordable Housing Opportunities in 8 Districts, Maryam Nawaz
Specific Changes in Ministries and Departments
Among the notable changes, the Capital Administration Division has been disbanded, and the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs has merged with the Ministry of State and Frontier Regions (Safron). These measures demonstrate the government’s commitment to eliminating overlap and redundancy across its operations. Moreover, certain departments within the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Food Security have been shuttered, although the core ministries remain intact.
Strategic Closure of Entities
The plan details the closure of 40 entities across several ministries, reflecting a significant reduction in governmental breadth. The Ministry of Industries faces the most substantial cut with 25 departments closing. The targeted approach in reducing department numbers is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and reducing bureaucratic overhead.
Rightsizing for Efficiency and Effectiveness
Bilal Azhar Kayani, a member of the rightsizing committee, explained that the goal extends beyond mere financial savings. The restructuring is intended to enhance governmental effectiveness by reducing duplicate efforts and improving service delivery. This is part of a broader strategy to make the government leaner and more agile in its functions.
Legal Amendments and Future Plans
To fully implement these changes, amendments to the Civil Servants Act are necessary, especially for adjusting positions from grades 17 to 22. The Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases has already approved these amendments, signaling a forward movement in the restructuring process. The rightsizing initiative is set to continue with further reviews and modifications planned for additional ministries in subsequent phases.
Conclusion
The government’s aggressive approach to downsizing not only aims at fiscal responsibility but also at a structural overhaul designed to align more closely with modern governance standards. By June 30, 2025, the rightsizing process is expected to be fully implemented, in line with conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This initiative is a critical step in ensuring that the government remains responsive, efficient, and effective in serving the public.
