“Uraan-e-Pakistan Is a Strategic Leap Towards Balochistan’s Progress,” Says CM Sarfraz Bugti

QUETTA:Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, has declared the federal government’s **“Uraan-e-Pakistan”** initiative a well-planned and visionary effort aimed at ensuring real and sustainable development for the province. Speaking at an event organized by the **Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives**, CM Bugti emphasized that the program is not just a slogan, but a comprehensive strategy backed by actionable steps.

Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, provincial ministers, advisers, parliamentary secretaries, and other federal and provincial officials were also in attendance.

In his address, CM Bugti said, “The time for symbolic announcements is over. Development now requires **scientific, economic, and administrative foundations**.” He stressed that Balochistan urgently needs **effective reforms, sound planning, and governance based on merit and competence**.

Highlighting his government’s commitment, he noted that for the first time, **Rs. 210 billion in development funds** are being utilized effectively. Referring to Ahsan Iqbal’s remarks, Bugti said the federal vision behind “Uraan-e-Pakistan” rightly positions Balochistan as a key partner in the nation’s progress.

He praised the **Prime Minister’s support** for projects like the **Kachhi Canal and highway construction**, stating that without federal cooperation, such projects would have taken a decade to complete—whereas now they are being delivered within two years.

CM Bugti candidly addressed criticism of governance in Balochistan, acknowledging past shortcomings but asserting that his administration is determined to implement a **competency-based system**. He pledged to **ensure 80% merit-based governance**, aiming to make young people stakeholders in government through inclusive policies.

He announced that within a week, the government would **approve the “Export Development Board”**, intended to promote Balochistan’s role in national exports. Additionally, **special industrial zones are being activated**, shifting them from paper to real production hubs.

Other key initiatives include:
– **100 scholarships** for students from 12 underprivileged districts at Sadiq Public School Bahawalpur
– Revival of long-delayed projects like the **Kachhi Canal**, originally launched in 2002 but disrupted until recently
– **Plans for long-term projects** in water-stressed areas to provide **sustainable and lawful employment opportunities**

“The future of Balochistan lies not in temporary aid but in **strategic, long-term planning**,” Bugti declared, reaffirming his vision to work with the **private sector** to transform Balochistan into a **model province** of Pakistan.

He concluded by urging all stakeholders to choose the path of progress over decline, emphasizing Balochistan’s unique potential in **natural resources, industry, finance, and strategic geography**.