The federal government is set to approve a significant increase in the Climate Change Budget, raising it to Rs. 15.87 billion for the Ministry of Climate Change in the upcoming fiscal year. This proposed budget marks a substantial rise from last year’s allocation of Rs. 4 billion, reflecting a dedicated focus on addressing climate change issues.
Major Increase in Climate Change Budget
The budget is expected to see an increase of Rs. 11.82 billion, bringing the total to Rs. 15.87 billion for FY2024-25. Key initiatives under this budget will include the continuation of the Green Pakistan program, formerly known as the Ten Billion Trees Tsunami Program. This program will receive the majority of the funds, with Rs. 15.62 billion allocated to support its efforts.
Focus on Green Pakistan Program
Launched in 2018, the Green Pakistan program aims to combat deforestation and promote sustainable environmental practices. The project has an estimated total cost of over Rs. 125 billion, and by June 30, 2024, the authorities will have spent Rs. 29.56 billion on it. In the next fiscal year, expenditures for the nationwide tree plantation drive expected to exceed Rs. 45 billion, highlighting the government’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Additional Projects and Capacity Building
Apart from the Green Pakistan program, the new Budget includes funding for four additional projects under the Ministry of Climate Change. Notably, Rs. 100 million allocated for capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing the ministry’s effectiveness. This allocation designed to strengthen the ministry’s ability to address climate change challenges more efficiently.
The approval of the Rs. 16 billion Climate Change Budget underscores the federal government’s recognition of the urgent need to tackle environmental issues and promote sustainable development. This budget aims to bolster ongoing projects and introduce new initiatives to mitigate the impacts of climate change, ensuring a greener future for the nation.
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