ECC approves over Rs5bn in grants for health, education and security

April 9, 2026 (MLN): The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved multiple Technical Supplementary Grants exceeding Rs 5 billion, including Rs 2.8 billion for the Federal Directorate of Immunization to support nationwide vaccination efforts, Rs 2 billion for education and youth skills programmes, and Rs 306 million for the Airports Security Force.

The committee also cleared amendments to the Import Policy Order 2022 to regulate the import of areca nut with stricter safety and inspection measures, according to a press release issued.

The meeting of the ECC was held at the Finance Division under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, and was attended by key cabinet members including Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, along with senior officials from various ministries and divisions.

During the session, the ECC approved a Rs 2.8 billion grant for the Federal Directorate of Immunization, a flagship programme targeting immunization of over eight million children against preventable diseases.

The funding will support procurement of vaccines, syringes, and cold chain equipment in coordination with provincial governments.

The committee also endorsed proposed amendments to the Import Policy Order 2022, introducing a revised framework for the import of areca (betel) nut.

The changes include pre-shipment inspections and enhanced regulatory oversight aimed at ensuring compliance with food safety and phytosanitary standards while facilitating smoother trade practices.

Additionally, a Technical Supplementary Grant of Rs 306 million was approved for the Airports Security Force under the Defence Division to cover essential expenditures such as payments under the Prime Minister’s Assistance Package, Leave Preparation Reserve encashments, and travel-related allowances.

In the education sector, the ECC approved Rs 2 billion through a Technical Supplementary Grant sourced from adjustments within the Public Sector Development Programme.

The funds will be utilized for priority projects, including the establishment of Daanish School in Kuri, Islamabad, and the Prime Minister’s Youth Skill Development Programme under NAVTTC, aimed at improving youth employability.

The committee stressed the importance of effective monitoring and accountability, directing relevant authorities to ensure transparent utilization of funds with clear performance benchmarks and reporting mechanisms.

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