National ( The cow news digital ) The federal government of Pakistan has initiated discussions to update the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award with special consideration for the country’s tribal districts, according to recent statements made by provincial leadership following a meeting of the National Economic Council.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi stated that he strongly presented the province’s position during the council meeting, emphasizing the financial and developmental concerns of the region. He noted that significant progress has been made regarding the long-delayed revision of the NFC framework, which determines the distribution of financial resources among Pakistan’s federating units.
According to Afridi, the Prime Minister has committed to finalizing a revised NFC Award within 180 days. He added that the updated formula is expected to include adjustments specifically aimed at addressing the needs of the merged tribal districts, which were integrated into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in recent years. The inclusion of these areas in fiscal planning has remained a key demand of provincial authorities and local representatives.
Afridi further explained that consensus among all provinces will be essential for the approval of the updated NFC Award. In the event that a mutual agreement is not reached, the federal government may forward the summary to the President for final consideration, as per constitutional procedures.
The Chief Minister also highlighted issues related to wheat policy and inter-provincial commodity movement. He stated that ensuring free movement of wheat remains a federal responsibility and stressed the importance of implementing previously agreed terms with the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO). He claimed that procurement arrangements had been set above Rs. 4,150 per maund, and reiterated that the federal government has assured provinces that wheat prices will remain stable.
The proposed NFC revision is being closely watched by policymakers, as it carries significant implications for fiscal federalism, provincial development funding, and resource distribution across Pakistan. Analysts believe that any successful update to the award could help address long-standing regional disparities, particularly in newly merged and less developed districts.
Further consultations between the federal government and provincial administrations are expected in the coming months as stakeholders work toward a consensus-based financial framework.
