Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur has announced a new initiative to combat unemployment and poverty by introducing an interest-free loan program aimed at empowering the youth towards self-reliance.
During a press conference in DI Khan, CM Gandapur emphasized the importance of this program, warning of strict consequences, including imprisonment, for any misuse of the loan funds.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the federal government’s handling of electricity pricing and load-shedding issues, CM Gandapur urged the Centre to settle KP’s outstanding dues promptly, highlighting the burden of a Rs450 billion deficit.
CM Gandapur also underscored the need for affordable healthcare, noting the restoration of free treatment facilities under the Sehat Insaf Card scheme across the province and ongoing efforts to enhance public hospital services.
In addressing corruption, CM Gandapur pledged to eradicate the culture of bribery within institutions, asserting a policy of termination rather than mere transfer for those implicated in corrupt activities.
Looking ahead, CM Gandapur assured that the upcoming budget would prioritize the welfare of the people and hinted at legislative measures to combat drug trafficking, including mandatory drug testing in educational institutions and harsh penalties for drug peddlers.
Previously, CM Gandapur had issued strong warnings to the federal government regarding the clearance of KP’s dues, even threatening a march to Islamabad if necessary to secure the province’s rights.
Reaffirming KP’s stance on resource allocation and provincial rights, CM Gandapur urged the federal government to address the grievances of the province promptly.
