Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif announced a transformative initiative on Monday, revealing plans to shift 28,000 agricultural tube wells in Balochistan to solar power within three months. This landmark decision, reached in collaboration between the Federal and Balochistan provincial governments, aims to revolutionize farming practices and ensure sustainable energy usage across the province.
Addressing the media after a ceremonious agreement signing, Prime Minister Sharif outlined the financial framework of the project. “The federal government will provide 70% of the funding, amounting to Rs55 billion, while the provincial government will contribute the remaining 30%,” he stated. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing agricultural productivity and reducing dependency on traditional electricity grids.
The agreement signing ceremony, attended by federal ministers, Governor Balochistan Jafar Khan Mandokhel, and Chief Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti, underscored the collaborative effort required for such ambitious projects. Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the urgency of completing the solarization project within three months to ensure uninterrupted power supply to farmers throughout the day.
Describing the initiative as a “deep structured change,” Prime Minister Sharif highlighted its alignment with the government’s broader reform agenda. “This project is projected to save Rs500 billion, which would otherwise drain away,” he added, emphasizing the fiscal benefits of transitioning to solar power.
Acknowledging past challenges in the power sector, Prime Minister Sharif noted the substantial financial burden on the federal government due to unpaid subsidies, estimating it at Rs80-90 billion. He expressed confidence that solarizing tube wells would resolve these issues permanently, providing a sustainable solution for energy needs in Balochistan.
Prime Minister Sharif underscored the global trend towards solar energy as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective power source. “Solar power utilization is widespread worldwide, offering an inexpensive alternative to conventional energy sources,” he remarked, highlighting Pakistan’s prioritization of renewable energy solutions.
In addition to the solarization project, Prime Minister Sharif outlined educational initiatives aimed at fostering development in Balochistan. He announced a 10% quota for provincial students in a government-sponsored batch of 1,000 graduate students heading to China for specialized training in agriculture. Another 10% quota was allocated for Balochistan students in Huawei’s IT training program, benefiting 300,000 students.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Sharif confirmed the allocation of funds in the fiscal budget for expanding Danish schools in Balochistan. “We aim to establish Danish schools at the divisional level to ensure all students across the province benefit from quality education,” he affirmed, emphasizing the government’s commitment to educational reforms.
Reflecting on Balochistan’s strategic importance, Prime Minister Sharif stressed its integral role in Pakistan’s overall development trajectory. He highlighted Punjab’s contribution to Balochistan’s development through the allocation of Rs150-160 billion from its NFC share.
Addressing challenges, Prime Minister Sharif expressed optimism about overcoming obstacles with collective effort, citing examples of successful nations that emerged stronger after facing adversity. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to transforming Gwadar into a major global trade hub, leveraging its potential to bolster provincial and national economies.
