The Revenue Division has informed the Cabinet Committee on Rightsizing of the Federal Government that it has abolished 158 posts and designated another 27 as “dying” in accordance with decisions of the federal cabinet.
Chaired virtually by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, who is currently in Davos, the meeting received detailed presentations from the Revenue Division and the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety regarding their mandates, organizational structures, budget allocations, expenditures, and the impact of their work on public services.
During its presentation, the Revenue Division highlighted key aspects of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR)’s transformation plan, focusing on initiatives designed to modernize the Customs Department. The transformation plan, approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sept. 19, 2024, aims to improve operations, including automation and technology integration, such as the Faceless Customs Assessment and Examination.
Steps taken by the Revenue Division to streamline its operations include the abolition of 158 posts (BS-18 and below) and the designation of 27 posts (BS-16 to 20) as “dying posts.” To challenges faced by the FBR, the Revenue Division proposed a one-time dispensation from the requirement to abolish 60% of vacant posts within its field formations.
Acknowledging the challenges facing FBR due to under-investment, Aurangzeb reiterated the importance of embracing technological advancements, such as the implementation of automation systems, to improve efficiency and service delivery.
The Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety’s presentation detailed its work spanning multiple departments with overlapping functions. The finance minister noted that the fragmented approach to various departmental verticals had hindered scaling up the impact on public policy outcomes and public service delivery. Commending the presentation, he emphasized the need for a more integrated approach.
Aurangzeb tasked the sub-committee of the Rightsizing Committee with conducting a thorough review of both the Revenue Division and the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety to better assess their structure, functions, and efficiencies. The sub-committee will engage with both entities to identify opportunities for improved public service outcomes in line with the committee’s mandate.
The meeting concluded with a clear directive for a follow-up examination, with a focus on rightsizing measures that ensure effectiveness, better service delivery, and sustainable public policies.