Balochistan cabinet approves new police stations, expanded security measures

QUETTA: The Balochistan cabinet on Tuesday approved a range of decisions focused on improving governance, public welfare, and provincial security. These include the establishment of two new police stations in Kohlu, enhanced security arrangements for Mangi Dam, and new Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) stations in Rakhni and Barkhan, along with jurisdictional adjustments for CTD in Loralai and Sibi.

Chaired by Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, the cabinet meeting led to several key policy approvals. Briefing the media afterwards, government spokesperson Shahid Rind said the cabinet had approved amendments to arms license rules, revoking all previous exemptions. A comprehensive security policy for ministers, advisors, and members of the provincial assembly was also endorsed.

In support of the agriculture sector, the cabinet sanctioned a 50% subsidy on agricultural tractors for farmers. Additionally, the upgradation of trained crop reporters from grade 6 to grade 11 was approved, in accordance with a Supreme Court ruling. To improve healthcare delivery in underserved areas, the cabinet approved the activation of non-hospital health facilities with the support of the Pakistan Army, aiming to ensure basic healthcare at the community level.

In the energy sector, a high-level committee—comprising the Secretaries of Finance and Energy—was formed to carry out technical and financial evaluations of 150-kilowatt solar power projects in Lasbela and Hub.

To enhance transparency and investment in the mining sector, the cabinet approved the establishment of the Balochistan Mineral Development Fund. It also gave the green light to the Balochistan Contribution Pension Scheme Rules 2025, which aim to introduce a sustainable pension system for government employees and reduce future non-development expenditures.

For the advancement of digital education, the cabinet decided to revise and expand the existing laptop policy. It also approved recruitment against vacant posts across all departments, including the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, to generate employment opportunities. In response to a federal government request, the cabinet rescinded a 20-acre land lease previously granted to a private medical institution.

In a move to promote gender equality, the cabinet approved the appointment of Kiran Baloch as Chairperson of the Balochistan Commission on the Status of Women. In the education sector, intern teachers in Makran and Kech will be adjusted into the system. The cabinet also endorsed proposed rules for the Excise and Taxation Department and approved amendments to the Journalists Welfare Rules to provide greater support for media professionals.

Spokesperson Shahid Rind stated that the decisions reflect Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti’s vision of a secure, empowered, and people-centric Balochistan. He added that the provincial government remains committed to transparency, merit, and public service, and that the benefits of these initiatives will soon be felt by the people.