ECC Approves Significant Proposals for ANF Employees

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet met on Thursday and approved several important proposals aimed at addressing healthcare and employee compensation issues. Among the notable decisions was the approval to increase the retail price of the Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) from Rs 891.65 to Rs 1,980 per vial (0.5ml dose). The meeting, chaired by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, included participation from various ministers and senior officials.

The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination presented a summary regarding a shortage of the ARV at the Federal General Hospital in Chak Shahzad, Islamabad. It was reported that the locally manufactured vaccine was priced significantly lower than WHO-approved alternatives available in the market, which cost Rs 2,126.40 and Rs 1,266.14 for non-WHO approved options.

The ECC approved the price increase to ensure adequate supply and cover the costs of imported materials necessary for vaccine production.

Additionally, the committee greenlit a proposal to raise the Special Allowance for Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) employees, aligning their compensation with other Federal Law Enforcement Agencies. This adjustment addresses the disparity in salaries, considering the similar risks faced by ANF personnel in drug prevention and border patrol duties. The financial impact of this increase, estimated at Rs 264.744 million, will be accommodated within the current budget.

The ECC also approved a Technical Supplementary Grant (TSG) of Rs 150 million for the Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination in preparation for the upcoming COP-29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11-22, 2024. This grant will help Pakistan showcase its climate initiatives, including renewable energy projects and disaster risk reduction strategies.

Furthermore, a proposal from the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination for a TSG of Rs 400 million to host the 14th Edition of the South Asian Games in April was discussed. However, the committee decided to defer this proposal until the next meeting, requesting a more detailed plan with cost estimates and funding strategies.

Lastly, the ECC approved a TSG amounting to Rs 45 billion for various defense service projects already sanctioned for the 2024-25 fiscal year.