Senate returns Rs 1.436 bln to national exchequer: Gilani

ISLAMABAD, Jun 10 (APP):Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Wednesday informed the Upper House that the Senate Secretariat has surrendered Rs 1.436 billion to the national exchequer. In a statement while addressing the Senate, the chairman said that the step was taken under a comprehensive austerity and expenditure rationalisation programme, demonstrating parliament’s commitment to financial discipline and prudent use of public funds. The Chairman said the savings represent approximately …

ISLAMABAD, Jun 10 (APP):Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Wednesday informed the Upper House that the Senate Secretariat has surrendered Rs 1.436 billion to the national exchequer.
In a statement while addressing the Senate, the chairman said that the step was taken under a comprehensive austerity and expenditure rationalisation programme, demonstrating parliament’s commitment to financial discipline and prudent use of public funds.
The Chairman said the savings represent approximately 15.9 percent of the Senate’s total budget and exceed the savings target set by the Finance Division by nearly 500 percent.
He stated that the savings were achieved through strict financial controls, including the suspension of non-essential expenditures, reduction in operational costs, restrictions on official transport and foreign visits, and increased reliance on digital platforms.
Chairman Gilani informed the House that despite the availability of Rs 60 million in the current financial year for the purchase of official vehicles, no vehicle was procured.
 He added that the Senate Finance Committee has unanimously agreed to forgo allocations for the replacement of condemned vehicles in the upcoming financial year, which is expected to generate additional savings of around Rs140 million.
Describing the savings as “actual and realised,” the Chairman said the measures reflect the Senate’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of public resources.
“At a time when the nation is facing economic challenges, it is important that Parliament leads by example,” he remarked.
Chairman Gilani expressed gratitude to the members of the Senate and the Senate Finance Committee for their support and cooperation in implementing the austerity measures.
He said the achievement reflects a collective commitment to transparency, accountability, and prioritising national interest over institutional convenience.
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