Pakistan govt accelerates right-sizing to meet IMF targets

The federal government has decided to fast-track the implementation of its right-sizing policy in order to meet the International Monetary Fund (IMF) targets by June 30.

Sources said that under the right-sizing policy, steps are being taken to ensure the timely achievement of fiscal year-end goals.

The third phase of the government's right-sizing initiative is nearing completion, with five ministries and divisions already selected for downsizing.

The Finance Ministry and the Power Division have been identified for the third phase, alongside the Ministries of Information and Broadcasting, National Heritage and Culture, and Education, according to sources.

The proposals for the fourth phase of right-sizing are expected to be finalised within a week. For the fourth phase, the government has selected another five ministries and divisions, including Railways, Communications, Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Petroleum Division, and Revenue Division.

Work has also begun on the fifth phase of the downsizing drive, with planning focused on five more ministries and divisions.

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These include the Ministries of Planning, Privatisation, and Economic Affairs, along with the Establishment Division and Cabinet Division.

Earlier, the federal cabinet had approved the proposals for the first phase of right-sizing on August 27, 2024, and for the second phase on January 1, 2025.

So far, the federal government has abolished 32,070 posts under its right-sizing policy and cancelled another 7,826 positions, sources added.