Federal Minister for Information Shibli Faraz addressing a press conference in Islamabad Monday said erstwhile FATA integration was aimed at bringing development to the people and their areas while 28,000 levies and Khasadars integrated into Police, 24NewsHD TV channel reported.

He said that Levies and Khasadars were integrated prior to the FATA merger while FATA budget has been increased from Rs 59 billion to Rs 182 billion.

“The efficiency in the field of health and education has been increased,” he said during a press conference.

He said erstwhile tribal areas which are now part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be given 3 perecnt from National Finance Commission Award (NFC). “In consultation with the stakeholders, Mining Act has been promulgated in erstwhile FATA,” he added.

He said the 25th constitutional amendment was made with consensus.

Information Minister also tweeted: “We congratulate the brave and zealous tribal people on the completion of one year of the democratic process in the former FATA. Last year, on this day, the patriotic tribal people got the fruits of their eternal sacrifices and perseverance in the form of voting rights. They will have more happiness, good news and opportunities for development.”

https://twitter.com/shiblifaraz/status/1285100890240712704

Faraz said: “The tribal people are close to the heart of Prime Minister Imran Khan, and he is determined to develop and empower them. Giving the tribal people the right to advocate, argument and appeal is a change, their inclusion in the mainstream of democracy is a sign of a new strong and prosperous Pakistan.”