KARACHI: In a significant development, the Sindh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, announced a series of major policy decisions during a four-hour meeting. The cabinet approved the awarding of grace marks to first-year students under the Karachi educational board, initiated a ban on plastic bags, and enacted rules for monitoring habitual offenders via electronic devices such as anklets.
The cabinet meeting, attended by provincial ministers and senior officials, also decided to establish a Centre for Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism. This center will focus on addressing issues related to violent extremism and will work closely with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on combating terror financing.
In environmental matters, the cabinet approved an amendment to the Sindh Prohibition of Non-degradable Plastic Products Rules, 2014, effectively banning the use of all types of plastic shopping bags in the province. This ban will come into effect sixty days from the date of approval.
Addressing educational concerns, the cabinet responded to a reported decline in passing percentages for Class XI results in 2024. A special committee led by Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah recommended granting grace marks in Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics to first-year students. An inquiry into irregularities within educational boards has also been ordered.
The cabinet approved the implementation of the Sindh Habitual Offenders Monitoring Act, 2022, which allows for the monitoring of repeat offenders using electronic devices. This initiative aims to reduce street crime and improve safety.
Furthermore, the cabinet endorsed the establishment of the Centre for Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism within the Home Department. This center will engage in research and policy development to counter online radicalization and hate speech.
In other decisions, the cabinet approved an increase in the budget for the Tertiary Hospital in District Thatta and the transfer of government dispensaries to the People’s Primary Healthcare Initiative (PPHI). The cabinet also allotted land for various infrastructure projects to enhance connectivity and approved several key appointments across different sectors.
These decisions reflect the Sindh government’s commitment to addressing pressing issues in education, public safety, and environmental protection.