TRADE & ECONOMY

ECC Approves Rs15.8bn Grant for Armed Forces, OKs Sugar Import & Farmers’ Scheme

Islamabad: ECC okays Rs15.8bn for armed forces’ salaries & martyrs' dues. Sugar import approved; new risk cover scheme for small farmers launching Aug 14.
2025-06-28
ECC Approves Rs15.8bn Grant for Armed Forces, OKs Sugar Import & Farmers’ Scheme

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved a significant grant of Rs 15.839 billion for the Ministry of Defense to cover the salaries, allowances, and other dues of Pakistan’s armed forces, including disbursements under the Prime Minister’s Package for martyrs of the recent Pakistan-India conflict.

The decision was taken during a high-level ECC meeting chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, where several major policy matters related to economic stability, food security, and energy were discussed.

Support for Armed Forces and Martyrs' Families

According to the Ministry of Finance, the approved grant will be released to settle financial obligations owed to military personnel, with a portion specifically allocated to families of martyrs under a federal compensation initiative.

The ECC reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the timely support of the country’s defense institutions, particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Sugar Import Approved Amidst Price Concerns

To stabilize market prices and ensure adequate supply, the ECC approved the import of sugar. The decision comes amid rising concerns over domestic production shortfalls and inflationary pressure in the food sector.

Authorities noted that the sugar import will be carried out strategically to avoid hoarding and regulate prices ahead of the next quarter.

New Risk Cover Scheme for Small Farmers

In a move to uplift marginalized farming communities, the ECC also approved the launch of a risk cover scheme for small farmers and underdeveloped areas. The initiative, which aims to protect agricultural workers from natural disasters, market shocks, and crop failures, is expected to be formally launched on August 14, 2025—coinciding with Pakistan’s Independence Day.

Officials said the scheme will provide financial protection and insurance support to small-scale farmers, particularly in flood-prone and drought-affected zones.

Conclusion

The ECC’s latest decisions reflect the government’s multi-pronged approach to addressing economic resilience, national security, and rural development. Further details and implementation frameworks for the approved measures are expected in the coming weeks.