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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s scientific innovation is at a standstill as the Ministry of Science and Technology revealed to the Senate that it has not initiated any new development projects in the past three years due to severe budget constraints. The disclosure came during a Senate Standing Committee meeting, raising concerns about the country’s dwindling investment in research and technological advancement.
The committee, chaired by Senator Kamil Ali Agha, reviewed the Ministry’s Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and budget proposals for the fiscal year 2025–26. The lack of funding was highlighted as the main reason for stalled progress in research and development, with the committee strongly recommending an increased allocation to revitalize the sector.
Officials informed the committee that while 75% of the Rs14 billion budget has been utilized, the remaining will be disbursed in the last quarter. NUST and PCSIR are receiving the highest allocations, with NUST alone being granted Rs3 billion. However, concerns were raised by Senator Afnanullah Khan over disparities in salary structures at NUST, where administrative staff reportedly earn more than faculty members and enjoy additional perks such as official vehicles.
During the meeting, the committee also expressed concern over several institutions within the ministry operating without appointed heads. Federal Minister Khalid Magsi responded that steps are being taken to fill these leadership roles promptly.
Currently, 31 projects are ongoing with a collective cost exceeding Rs3 billion. However, the committee expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of new development, citing the need for forward-looking initiatives and recognition of innovative efforts. The ministry secretary revealed a proposal submitted to the Prime Minister that recommends awarding individuals or institutions for inventions and breakthroughs, aiming to revive interest in scientific research.
The federal minister acknowledged that budget constraints on science and technology research in Pakistan are hindering progress. He highlighted that even the agriculture sector is facing setbacks due to poor quality seeds and fertilizers, stressing the urgency for applied research to boost national productivity.
The committee also discussed issues such as the Prime Minister’s compensation package not being extended to deceased ministry employees, and the lack of a formal briefing from NUST. Additionally, suggestions were made to raise public awareness about drug testing and to consider offering free testing services. The minister agreed and added that the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) must become more proactive.
A positive development shared during the session was the establishment of a modern solar panel testing laboratory with support from Korea. With Pakistan becoming one of the largest buyers of solar panels, committee members emphasized the importance of reliable testing facilities.
The committee concluded by directing the ministry to present detailed expenditure reports in the next session and reaffirmed its recommendation to significantly increase the budget to address the ongoing budget constraints on science and technology research in Pakistan.
