PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi, while addressing the media after the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, stated that the provincial government vigorously presented its case and unequivocally advocated for the protection of its constitutional, financial, and development rights.
NFC Award Update
The Chief Minister revealed that the Prime Minister assured participants that formal meetings would be convened to update the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award within the next 180 days. If consensus is not achieved within the stipulated timeframe, a summary will be forwarded to the President to facilitate the update through a Presidential Order.
The revised NFC Award will incorporate the financial share of the merged districts, which Afridi described as a significant development for the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly those in the merged areas. Regarding the proposed reduction in the Accelerated Implementation Programme (AIP) for the merged districts, the Chief Minister noted that after negotiations, the extent of the cut was substantially mitigated. However, the provincial government continues to press for further improvements.
Afridi expressed optimism that additional enhancements would be made to both the Annual Development Programme (ADP) and AIP allocations for the merged districts to ensure timely development benefits for local communities.
Article 151 and Wheat Supply
The Chief Minister drew attention to Article 151 of the Constitution, stating that ensuring free movement of goods across provincial boundaries is a constitutional responsibility of the Federation. He remarked that if implementation is not possible, consideration should be given to revisiting the constitutional arrangement and allowing provinces to formulate their own policies.
On wheat supplies, Afridi said that under an agreement with PASSCO, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will receive 175,000 tonnes of wheat at the agreed price, with the Federal Government assuring no increase in the committed rate.
Investment in Public Safety
Since assuming office in October 2025, the provincial government has invested over Rs 30 billion in enhancing the operational capacity, infrastructure, and capabilities of the police, Counter Terrorism Department, and Special Branch. Afridi reaffirmed the government's commitment to further strengthening these institutions to ensure protection of life and property.
Development Priorities and Social Welfare
Highlighting development priorities, the Chief Minister stated that education, health, and law and order remain at the forefront. Social protection initiatives, including the Ehsaas Programme, shelter homes, Zamung Kor, and the 'Koi Bhuka na Soi' initiative, continue to serve vulnerable segments. He described the Sehat Card as one of the most transformative social welfare initiatives envisioned by Imran Khan, providing free healthcare coverage to every resident of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Environmental Sustainability
Afridi noted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa contributes approximately 45 percent of Pakistan's forest resources, with forests covering 26.7 percent of the province's total land area. He announced dedicated financial resources to further expand forest cover. The provincial government intends to purchase trees grown on private lands instead of allowing premature harvesting, thereby incentivizing afforestation and supporting local landowners. Individuals seeking to undertake plantation on barren land will be facilitated by the government, with the objective of expanding forest cover and strengthening the province's contribution to Pakistan's environmental resilience and climate objectives.
