In a major administrative reform move, the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) cabinet on Tuesday approved the abolition of seven secretary-level posts by merging various administrative departments.
According to official sources, the decision was taken in line with an agreement reached with the Joint Public Action Committee, aimed at streamlining governance and reducing administrative expenditures. As part of the reforms, several departments have been merged, leading to the elimination of redundant positions.
The abolished posts include those of Transport and Population Welfare secretaries. Additionally, the positions of Disaster Management and Tourism and Archaeology secretaries have been done away with under the new arrangement.
Further, the cabinet approved the abolition of the posts of Religious Affairs and Endowments and Information Technology secretaries. The position of ex-officio Environmental Protection Agency secretary has also been abolished.
Officials said the reforms are intended to improve efficiency, enhance coordination among departments, and ensure better utilization of public resources. The implementation of the decision will take effect immediately, with responsibilities redistributed among the relevant merged departments.