QUETTA: While maintaining that Balochistan has embarked on an unstoppable journey of development and good governance, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti once again offered disgruntled Baloch leaders an opportunity for talks, provided they operate within the constitutional framework, but ruled out any negotiations with terrorist groups.
He expressed these views while concluding debate on the provincial budget on the floor of the Balochistan Assembly on Sunday. CM Bugti said any political force accepting the constitution and laws would find the government ready for dialogue. The government had adopted a dual strategy against terrorism: continuing strong operations against militants while improving public service delivery.
On education, he said 15,000 of 15,370 schools were operational, while the remaining 370 were built at unsuitable locations. He said the government recruited 14,000 teachers, reopened more than 3,200 schools and enrolled 720,000 children.
In the health sector, the CM said, more than 2,800 healthcare personnel were recruited, 4,519 doctors promoted and 164 basic health units made functional.
Offers disgruntled groups opportunity for talks, rejects any negotiations with anti-state elements
According to him, medicine availability improved from 46pc to 89pc, essential supplies at maternal and child health centres from 11pc to 86pc, emergency medicine availability to 94pc and basic maternal and child healthcare facilities from 4pc to 83pc. No polio case has been reported since Nov 2024.
Metro train, other projects
Outlining future plans, CM Bugti announced the Quetta People’s Train Project would be upgraded into a metro-style rail service linking Sariab and Kuchlak. The government will expand the provincial fiber-optic network, activate markets and transport terminals. A scholarship plan for Balochistan’s daughters would be launched on July 1.
He paid tribute to martyrs and announced a 10pc salary increase for counter terrorism department, anti-terrorist force and special operations wing personnel. Compensation for martyred security personnel was doubled, while compensation for civilian martyrs was increased by an additional Rs10 million, he added.
Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2026