KP CM Questions Where Rs1375 Billion for Tribal Districts Went, Demands Full NFC Share

Islamabad: In a high-level joint steering committee meeting at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House, Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa raised concerns over the allocation of Rs1375 billion meant for the former tribal districts (merged districts) and urged the federal government to ensure full disbursement of funds.

The meeting, attended by federal ministers Ahsan Iqbal, Amir Maqam, Mubarak Zeb, and provincial Finance Minister Mazamil Aslam, reviewed the progress of rapid development projects in the merged districts.

The CM stated that the KP government has already provided Rs30.3 billion in bridge financing for tribal district projects, while the federal government has yet to release any funds under the current year’s ADP. The federal government’s indication to release Rs20 billion was welcomed, earmarked for police infrastructure and near-completion high-priority projects, with a further Rs9.3 billion promised for high-impact initiatives.

He emphasized the need for security-driven investment in the merged districts, noting that the provincial government allocated Rs28 billion for enhancing police capacity and modern equipment. The CM criticized that despite the merger, the funds meant for these districts were diverted to other provinces over the past seven years and has formally written to the Prime Minister regarding the NFC share.

Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal supported the CM’s demand, saying that the merged districts should receive their full financial resources, reflecting the principles of fairness. The briefing also highlighted ongoing initiatives, including solarization of homes under a new ADP scheme, strengthening FATA University with Rs2.5 billion, Rs7 billion spent on police infrastructure, and a plan to provide technical skills and internship opportunities to 1,000 youth.