The National Assembly today started the general discussion on Federal Budget for next fiscal year.

Initiating the discussion, Opposition Leader in the Lower House Omar Ayub Khan urged the government to focus on strengthening the economy and creating job opportunities for the people.

He called for relief measures to address the impact of inflation on the populace.

Highlighting the importance of peace and tranquility, the Opposition Leader said the dream to bring investment to the country will remain elusive without upholding rule of law.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said power load-shedding is being carried out on feeders where massive electricity theft is taking place.

Responding to points raised by the opposition leader, he said this load-shedding is not restricted to a particular area. He questioned how an uninterrupted power supply is possible on feeders, reporting eighty percent electricity theft.

Commenting on the performance of the PTI Government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Minister said they have added over 900 billion rupees to the province's debt.

Khawaja Asif said it was the PTI people, who desecrated martyrs' memorials and attacked military installations in the country.

Regarding inflation, he said the current government inherited a dilapidated economy and we are determined to turnaround it and provide relief to the people.

Speaking on the occasion, Muhammad Aslam Ghumman said strict action should be taken against those responsible for import of wheat. He said youth should be equipped with necessary skills to meet market demand. He said agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and the country cannot progress without promoting this sector.

Those who spoke on the occasion included Rai Hasan Nawaz, Mubeen Arif and Naseem Ali Shah.

The House was adjourned to meet again tomorrow (Friday) at 11 in the morning.