Dar calls for PSDP to focus on job creation and poverty reduction

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar on Friday emphasized that the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for FY2025–26 must focus on job creation, poverty reduction, and regional equity, in line with the government’s URAAN Pakistan vision for inclusive, innovation-led growth.

Dar made the remarks while chairing a meeting of the PSDP Committee at the DPM’s Office, according to an official news release.

The Planning Commission presented a detailed review of current PSDP projects, outlined priorities for the upcoming fiscal year, and highlighted key implementation challenges. In response, a sub-committee was formed to examine the PSDP more closely and provide actionable recommendations.

Given fiscal constraints, participants underscored the importance of leveraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to support development goals.

The meeting also identified energy, transport, water, agriculture, technology, infrastructure, and strategic initiatives under CPEC Phase 2.0 as priority sectors, with a focus on boosting national productivity and supporting underserved regions.

The session was attended by the ministers for Planning, Economic Affairs, and Food Security; Advisor to the Prime Minister Dr. Tauqeer Shah; Special Assistants to the Prime Minister; the Secretary of Planning; and other senior officials.