An internal meeting of the Functional Committee on Devolution was held on 25th June, 2024 at Parliament House, Islamabad under the chairmanship of Dr Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur. Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro, Senator Sardar Al Haj Muhammad Umer Gorgaij and Senator Poonja Bheel attended the meeting. The meeting, focused on elucidating the pivotal functions, operations, and constitutional mandate of the committee as outlined in the 18th Amendment of the Constitution of Pakistan. Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro briefed the committee that Devolution plays a pivotal role in ensuring the effective implementation of devolution principles across Pakistan. As mandated by the Constitution, particularly under the 18th Amendment, the committee is entrusted with the responsibility to oversee and facilitate the devolution of powers to local governments and institutions. This constitutional amendment marks a significant step towards decentralization, empowering provinces and local bodies to manage their affairs autonomously, thereby fostering inclusive governance and participatory democracy.

During the session, members deliberated on the operational framework of the committee, emphasizing its role in monitoring the progress of devolution initiatives and addressing challenges encountered in the implementation process. The committee's functions encompass reviewing legislative proposals related to devolution, conducting inquiries, and making recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of decentralization efforts nationwide. The committee also decided to make visits to all the provinces in order go examine their progress and working with particular reference to Balochistan. Similarly it was decided to call ministries one by one to take briefing and overview Senator Zarqa underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders to uphold the principles of devolution as envisaged by the Constitution.

She highlighted the committee's commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and equitable distribution of resources at the grassroots level. Key discussions during the meeting included strategies to streamline inter-provincial coordination, strengthen the capacity of local governments, and ensure the seamless transfer of administrative responsibilities from federal to provincial authorities. Members also exchanged views on leveraging technology and innovation to enhance service delivery and citizen engagement in decentralized governance structures. The Functional Committee on Devolution reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the constitutional mandate outlined in the 18th Amendment, which marks a significant milestone in Pakistan's journey towards decentralized governance. By fostering greater autonomy and empowerment at the local level, the committee aims to achieve sustainable development, social justice, and inclusive growth across the country. The committee decided to hold meetings on regular basis every fortnight.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan