Rawalpindi:Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), has condemned the Baloch Unity Committee as a proxy for criminal mafias, accusing it of working to malign agencies through external funding and propaganda.
In a press conference, General Chaudhry criticized the Baloch Unity Committee for inciting violence and presenting unjust demands, which led to disruptions including stone-pelting on pilgrims and attacks on security forces. He claimed that significant funds are being used to spread disruptive narratives through lobbying firms, and questioned why such resources are not used for constructive purposes like supporting Pakistan’s economy.
General Chaudhry revealed that a comprehensive scholarship program has been launched for students in Balochistan, providing education and support through the Pakistan Army. Over 8,000 students have benefited from this initiative. Additionally, the army operates 92 schools in Balochistan, catering to 19,000 students, and has facilitated higher education for 253 students in UAE universities.
He highlighted ongoing and completed development projects in Balochistan, including infrastructure improvements in roads and bridges, and various initiatives in Gwadar and Panjgur with international cooperation. These projects aim to provide education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
On the issue of counter-terrorism, General Chaudhry noted that 139 officers and soldiers have been martyred in operations during the first seven months of 2024. He assured that efforts against terrorism will continue until the last extremist is neutralized, with a focus on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
The DG ISPR also emphasized the military’s role in infrastructure development, education, and health services across Pakistan. He announced the establishment of 171 schools and 2 cadet colleges in various regions, with significant numbers of students benefiting from these facilities.
In the realm of agriculture, he reported that 800,000 acres of barren land are being converted to cultivable land, with advanced water technology being introduced to support this initiative.
General Chaudhry concluded by highlighting the military’s contributions to national security and economic growth, including tax collection efforts that have contributed billions to the national treasury.
