Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled a new Electricity Relief Package aimed at providing significant financial relief to domestic, industrial, and commercial consumers during the winter season.
The package, set to run from December 2024 to February 2025, will offer reductions in electricity tariffs, including up to Rs26.7 per unit for domestic users, Rs 15.5 per unit for industrial consumers, and Rs22.71 per unit for commercial users.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal on November 9, the premier explained that the relief initiative was designed to ease the financial strain on various sectors, particularly during the colder months.
For domestic consumers, the relief will apply to households consuming more than 200 units under the protected category, offering savings ranging from Rs 11.42 to Rs 26 per unit over the three-month period.
The industrial sector stands to benefit significantly as well, with savings of Rs 5.27 to Rs 15.5 per unit—an 18-37% reduction—aimed at encouraging industrial growth, boosting
production, and supporting job creation. Similarly, commercial consumers will receive a subsidy ranging from Rs 13.46 to Rs 22.71 per unit, a reduction of 34-47%, which is expected to help sustain business activity and lower operating costs.
PM Shehbaz emphasized that this relief package was part of the government’s broader strategy to stimulate economic growth, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture, industry, and business, while also boosting exports.
"This package is not just a temporary relief measure; it is designed to jumpstart long-term economic progress by enhancing industrial productivity and improving the livelihoods of ordinary citizens," he said.
The prime minister also acknowledged the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for allowing the government to implement this initiative, and he commended the efforts of his cabinet and government officials for their role in crafting the package.
"This relief package is a testament to our government’s commitment to improving the economic condition of the people and promoting sustainable growth," he stated.
In addition to the announcement of the electricity relief package, PM Shehbaz used the occasion of Allama Iqbal’s birth anniversary to inspire the country’s youth.
"The youth of today are the architects of tomorrow’s future. Stay resolute in your pursuit of excellence, for you are the ones who will lead this nation to greater heights," he urged the gathering.
Highlighting the government’s ongoing efforts to stabilize the economy, the Prime Minister shared positive economic developments, including a record high of $8 billion in remittances sent by overseas Pakistanis during the first quarter of the current fiscal year.
"Our overseas community plays a crucial role in protecting Pakistan’s interests and enhancing our global standing," he remarked.
Paying tribute to the legacy of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the Prime Minister recited several verses from Iqbal's poetry, which he said embodied the values of leadership, resilience, hard work, and self-belief.
"Iqbal’s philosophy remains a guiding light, motivating us to strive for a better, united, and prosperous Pakistan," he stated.
PM Shehbaz also pointed out that, under the current government’s economic policies, inflation had decreased significantly from 32% to 6.7%, and the policy interest rate had been reduced from 15%.
These improvements, he said, would help attract investment, boost exports, and promote development in key sectors such as agriculture and business.
The event included a screening of a documentary produced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, which highlighted Allama Iqbal’s life and philosophical contributions.
Renowned Pakistani singer Shehzad Roy, Dr. Masooma Awan, and young performers Mahnoor Altaf and Ashir Sultan paid tribute to Iqbal through musical performances of his iconic poems, including the uplifting anthem "Lab Pe Aati Hai Dua Ban Ke Tamanna Meri."
PM Shehbaz expressed his optimism for Pakistan’s future, reiterating that the government would continue its efforts to build a stronger, more resilient economy while providing the best opportunities for the nation’s youth.
The event was attended by several key members of the Federal Cabinet, including Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, Musadik Malik, Jam Kamal Khan, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, and other senior government officials.
