FBR Seeks Policy Exemption for Modernization Push

The Revenue Division has proposed a one-time waiver from the government policy that mandates the abolition of 60 percent of vacant posts in field formations, citing difficulties faced by the Federal Board of Revenue in implementing modernization plans.

The proposal was discussed during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Rightsizing the Federal Government held on Friday. The meeting, chaired virtually by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, featured detailed presentations from the Revenue Division and the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, focusing on their mandates, budgets, organizational structures, and contributions to public service.

The Revenue Division outlined its plan to upgrade the Federal Board of Revenue, emphasizing key initiatives such as automation and the introduction of projects like Faceless Customs Assessment and Examination. The committee was briefed on efforts to streamline operations, including the elimination of 158 posts in grades BS-18 and below and the classification of 27 posts in grades BS-16 to BS-20 as dying posts, in line with a Cabinet decision made in August 2024.

The division requested an exemption from the requirement to abolish 60 percent of vacant positions, citing the ongoing challenges in implementing these changes. Finance Minister Aurangzeb acknowledged the financial challenges that have impacted the Federal Board of Revenue and stressed the importance of using technology to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.

The Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety also reviewed its progress, with Aurangzeb highlighting the need for greater cohesion across departmental functions to enhance public service outcomes.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Aurangzeb directed the sub-committee of the Rightsizing Committee to conduct a comprehensive review of both the Revenue Division and the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety. The review will assess their structure, functions, and operational efficiencies to explore opportunities for improving public service delivery in line with the committee's objectives.

Source: Profit Magazine Pakistan