Empowering Marginalized Groups Key to Prosperous Balochistan: Chief Minister

Quetta: The Government of Balochistan has launched historic and comprehensive initiatives aimed at the social development and empowerment of youth, women, minorities, and other marginalized groups, including the transgender community. The positive impacts of these programs are gradually becoming visible.

During a meeting with Azma Yaqoob, Executive Director of FDI Pakistan, Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti discussed ongoing projects and policy measures designed to uplift women, youth, and other underprivileged segments of society. He also commended FDI Pakistan’s support in developing the province’s transgender policy and awarded Azma Yaqoob a Certificate of Appreciation for the organization’s contributions. Chief Secretary Balochistan, Shakeel Qadir Khan, was also present.

Key initiatives highlighted by the Chief Minister include:

Women Empowerment Programs: The Women Economic Endowment Fund provides interest-free loans ranging from PKR 500,000 to 1.5 million to support women-led businesses, promoting financial independence. The Pink Bus Service and Pink Scooties Scheme offer safe and dignified transportation for women.
Youth Development: Approval of Balochistan’s first comprehensive youth policy lays the foundation for a brighter future for young people.
Transgender and Minority Support: The transgender policy ensures equal access to education, employment, and development opportunities. A special endowment fund has also been established for minority welfare, with over 100 annual scholarships allocated for minority and transgender students.
Scholarship Programs: The Benazir Bhutto Scholarship Program offers Balochistan students access to 200 top international universities, covering education from matriculation to higher studies. Educational costs for children of martyrs and civilians who sacrificed their lives for the nation are fully covered by the government.

Chief Minister Bugti reiterated that the Balochistan government is committed to providing equal opportunities to all segments of society and will leave no group behind in the province’s development. Inclusive policies in education, health, and employment are being implemented to ensure sustainable growth and social justice. He emphasized that empowering youth, women, minorities, and marginalized groups is the foundation for a prosperous and developed Balochistan, and the provincial government is deploying all available resources to achieve this goal.