KARACHI, June 30: The governing body of Sindh Employees' Social Security Institution approved the institution's budget of Rs819.8 million with a surplus of Rs98.497 million for fiscal 2004-05.

Sindh Labour, Transport, Industries and Commerce Secretary Raja Muhammad Abbas chaired the budget meeting at SESSI's head office. Out of total budget, Rs526.886 million have been allocated for medical care and Rs29.725 million for cash benefits payable to workers, thus, projecting an overall increase in workers' welfare.

The budget envisaged Rs771.814 million income from social security contribution, Rs38.146 million profits on investment and Rs9.84 million from other sources.

SESSI Commissioner Nasar Hayat highlighted that Rs526.886 million, which was 73 per cent of the total expenditure, would be incurred on provision of medical care facilities at SESSI's medical outlets.

He said that he was determined to bring the medical outlets of SESSI at par with any first rate private medical institution. For procurement of medicines from pharmaceutical firms of national and international repute, he said that Rs90.644 million had been allocated in the budget 2004- 05.

He said that the base of contribution had been broaden by bringing 25,000 more workers in its scheme while it was ensured that no additional expenditure would be made on administration side.

The total secured number of workers during the year 2004-05 was estimated at 310,000 while beneficiaries would be 1,860,000 including the dependents. The SESSI has also allocated Rs1,800 million for development works, he added. -PPI