Islamabad: Abolition of the Constitution`s concurrent list is a major step towards provincial autonomy in Pakistan, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said.
Gilani said the cabinet would approve the third and last phase of devolution.
Associated Press of Pakistan reported that the seven ministries under consideration for devolution are health, environment, sports, food and agriculture, women`s development, labour and manpower, and minorities affairs.
A commission had identified 17 ministries for devolution. In the first and second phase, 10 ministries were wound up and their functions were devolved or reassigned. In the third phase, seven ministries are being wound up and their functions being devolved or reassigned.
"Now, when we have successfully restored the democratic dispensation, it is time to work with renewed vigour and enthusiasm to address those challenges which are confronting the common man," Gilani told a meeting here on Tuesday.
He said the government was already making every effort to overcome energy shortage, poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, inadequate health facilities, rural and regional backwardness.
He described it as a gigantic task.
"We look towards the provincial governments to be our partners in resolving the issues," he was quoted as saying.
IANS
