The federal government has initiated the implementation of decisions related to the rightsizing of nine ministries as part of its broader structural reform agenda, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance.

The ministries undergoing rightsizing include Kashmir Affairs, SAFRON (States and Frontier Regions), Information Technology (IT), Industries and Production, Health, Science and Technology, Commerce, Housing and Works, and Food Security.

As part of the restructuring efforts, the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and SAFRON have been merged into a single entity, while the Capital Administration and Development Division has been abolished entirely. These measures aim to enhance efficiency and reduce redundancy across federal institutions.

In the Ministry of IT and Telecom, the number of sub-agencies has been reduced from eleven to ten. Similarly, the Ministry of Industries and Production has seen a significant cutback, with 25 of its institutions abolished, leaving only six operational.

The Ministry of Health has also undergone a major overhaul, with its sub-agencies reduced from 30 to 20. The rightsizing process in other ministries, such as Housing and Works and Food Security, is reportedly underway.

The Finance Ministry further revealed that five institutions are being evaluated for rightsizing in the upcoming third phase of reforms. These include the Federal Education Ministry, Ministry of Information, Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Ministry of Finance, and the Power Division.

The government’s decision to streamline ministries and institutions is part of its strategy to curb administrative expenses and improve governance. However, the reforms have also raised questions about their potential impact on public service delivery and employment within the affected ministries.

The Ministry of Finance emphasised that these measures are being implemented in phases to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruption to essential functions.