The National Assembly is continuing discussion on the budget 2023-24 and the recommendations made by the Senate for inclusion in the Finance Bill.

In her remarks, Dr Shazia Sobia said emphasis should be given to equip the youth with IT and other market oriented skills. She said awareness campaigns should be launched to check population growth.

Maulana Akbar Chitrali supported the Senate's recommendation of enhancing the TV fee being collected from every household through electricity bills from thirty-five rupees to fifty rupees per month and that this increase of fifteen rupees be given to Radio Pakistan.

Participating in the discussion, Shaista Pervaiz Malik said pro-investment policy needs to be pursued to take the economy on an upward trajectory. She also emphasized human resource development.

Ahmed Hussain Dehar appreciated the raise given to the government employees in salaries. He proposed the salaries of employees in the scales of one to ten be enhanced by fifty percent. He said the government should provide further relief to the farmers in agricultural inputs.

Ali Musa Gilani thanked the Prime Minister for addressing the concerns of coalition parties on the budget.

The National Assembly today passed a unanimous resolution paying rich tribute to former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto for her struggle for the cause of democracy in Pakistan.

The resolution was moved by Nawabzada Iftikhar Ahmed Khan in connection with the70th birth anniversary of Benazir Bhutto being observed today.

Federal Minister Javed Latif said elements involved in the acts of violence on May 9 should be brought to justice. 

Commenting on the bill sailed through the Upper House, regarding perks and privileges of the Senate Chairman, he said these massive concessions are unrealistic and unacceptable.

Chaudhry Abid Raza said all institutions should work within their constitutional limits. He urged all political parties to negotiate a charter of democracy to uphold supremacy of the parliament and to ensure smooth transition of power as per spirit of the Constitution.

Naveed Aamir Jeeva called for allocating more funds for the welfare of minorities in the country.  He also stressed on implementation of minorities’ job quota.

The house has now been adjourned to meet tomorrow at eleven am.