The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to designate Galiyat of Abbottabad and Galiyat of Chitral as biosphere reserves under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife and Biodiversity Act of 2015. This decision received state cabinet approval and follows UNESCO’s recognition of these areas as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves on June 14, 2023, marking Pakistan’s total to four recognized biosphere reserves, including Lal Suhanra and Ziarat Juniper Forest.
The reserves’ establishment aligns with international commitments under Pakistan’s 10 billion tree program aimed at enhancing forest cover, restoring degraded lands, and protecting wildlife. The Prime Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa emphasized the importance of developing strategies for the protection of these sites.
Additionally, the government has approved a significant increase in funding for various sectors, including raising the budget for the EHSAAS HUNAR Program to Rs 355 crore to facilitate self-employment for skilled youth through interest-free loans. Amendments to the West Pakistan Notary Rules of 1965 have also been made, leading to increased fees for various notary services.
Supplementary grants of Rs 1,726.1 million have been approved to complete 760 earthquake-affected schools, following the devastation caused by the 2005 earthquake. The FATA University will receive a Developmental Support Grant of Rs 14.5 million to address water supply issues and improve facilities for its 1,100 enrolled students at Degid College.
Lastly, the government plans to release Rs 500 million from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Artists Welfare Endowment Fund, which aims to provide financial assistance to artists and support their livelihoods and health needs.
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