LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for achieving a record 5.9 million tax return filings during the fiscal year 2025 and expressed gratitude to the nation for demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility.
In a statement issued on Friday, the prime minister said that the inclusion of 900,000 new tax filers in the tax net reflects the public’s growing trust in the government’s economic policies. “We are deeply thankful to the people of Pakistan for their confidence in the government’s reforms,” he added.
Shehbaz said by the grace of Allah Almighty, the government’s efforts to reform the tax system have begun to yield positive results. He added that meritocracy has been given top priority within the FBR, introducing a performance-driven culture that rewards competent and hardworking officers while discouraging poor performance.
The PM noted that he personally supervises the digitization of the FBR by chairing weekly meetings, adding that tax return filing has been made easier and more user-friendly.
He further stated that the introduction of an automated clearance system at ports has helped eliminate corruption and enhance efficiency, while the expansion of the Point of Sale (POS) network has reduced sales tax evasion and curbed the informal economy.
Highlighting the success of the reforms, the PM said that a Rs9 billion increase in tax revenue compared to the previous fiscal year stands as clear evidence of the effectiveness of government’s FBR reforms.
“The process of further reforms in the FBR system is continuing without interruption,” he concluded, reaffirming the government’s commitment to eradicating corruption and the informal economy. Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and the entire nation on the day marking Gilgit-Baltistan’s freedom from Dogra rule on November 1, 1947.
In his message on Saturday, he said that on Nov 1, 1947, the brave and patriotic people of Gilgit-Baltistan displayed remarkable courage, unity and love for the homeland by gaining freedom from the Dogra rule and making the historic decision to become part of Pakistan. He said the day reminds the nation of the great sacrifices, determination and love for Pakistan that changed the course of the region’s history.
The PM reaffirmed that the federal government was fully committed to development, prosperity, and a better future for the youth of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Shehbaz added that ongoing projects in tourism, energy, infrastructure and education would serve as milestones in the region’s progress and uplift. He stressed that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan would be provided with every opportunity for growth and empowerment so they could play an active role in the national mainstream.
“The day calls for renewing our pledge to continue the journey of unity and progress with new energy and passion,” the PM stated. Concluding his message, the prime minister prayed that Allah Almighty bless Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan with peace, development and prosperity. Separately, PM Shehbaz Sharif Saturday expressed grief over the death of former Sindh Chief Minister Aftab Shaban Mirani. He prayed for the late leader and for patience and fortitude for the bereaved family.
“Aftab Shaban was an experienced political leader and senior parliamentarian of the Pakistan Peoples Party,” he said adding the political and public services of the deceased will always be remembered.
