On August 13, 2024, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad where he announced a significant expansion of the Privatisation Commission Board.
The board’s membership will increase from eight to eleven, with a key stipulation that all new appointees be women. This directive aligns with the Prime Minister’s broader goal of enhancing gender diversity in crucial economic decision-making roles.
In a notable effort to address the nation’s agricultural needs, the cabinet decided to prioritize the domestic production of urea fertilizer over imports. This policy shift aims to alleviate Pakistan’s reliance on imported urea and enhance self-sufficiency in fertilizer production. To support this transition, the cabinet agreed to ensure a consistent and reliable gas supply to urea manufacturing facilities. The uninterrupted gas supply is intended to facilitate increased production and stabilize the fertilizer industry.
The Prime Minister’s push for greater female representation on the Privatisation Commission reflects his ongoing commitment to promoting gender equality in high-level economic positions. This move is expected to foster a more inclusive approach to privatization and economic reforms.
Additionally, the cabinet’s focus on strengthening local urea production is part of a broader strategy to secure the nation’s food supply. By reducing dependency on imports and supporting domestic production, the government aims to bolster food security and support the agricultural sector.
Overall, these decisions highlight the government’s commitment to both gender diversity and economic self-sufficiency, addressing key areas of national importance through strategic policy changes and increased support for local industries.
