The National Assembly resumed its session at the parliament house in Islamabad today (Monday) with Speaker Asad Qaiser in the chair.

The National Assembly was informed today Pakistan has become locust free country as result of effective measures taken by the government.

Replying to a question during Question Hour, Parliamentary Secretary for National Food Security and Research Ameer Sultan said that locust has been eliminated from all 62 affected districts of the country. He said government has, so far, spent three billion rupees to eliminate locust. He said one billion out of that amount was provided by the Federal Government, while rest of the contribution was made by the provinces.

The Parliamentary Secretary said the Federal Government is considering allocating 26.4 billion rupees for undertaking miscellaneous activities for the management of locust, which include procurement of pesticides and equipment.  He said proper mechanism is in place to respond to any complaint the crop munching pest.

Responding to another question, Parliamentary Secretary on National Health Services Dr. Nousheen Hamid said that the government is enforcing zigzag technology in brick kilns to prevent air pollution.  Similarly, electrical vehicle policy is being introduced for four wheelers to overcome air pollution.

Answering a question, Parliamentary Secretary Textile, Commerce, Industries and Production and Board of Investment Aliya Hamza Malik said that five essential items are being provided at subsidized rates through 400 outlets of Utility Stores across Pakistan.

She said the government has allocated 71 billion rupees to provide wheat flour, sugar, ghee, rice, and pulses at subsidized prices.

Responding to another question Parliamentary Secretary for Railways Farrukh Habib said operation of Waris Shah and Ravi express trains will be revived soon, which was suspended due to Covid-19 pandemic. The house has now been adjourned to meet again tomorrow at 4:00 pm.