KARACHI, May 2: The reconstitution of the Sindh Finance Commission (SFC) was reviewed at a meeting here on Friday. Aftab Ahmed Shaikh, adviser to the chief minister on finance, presided over the meeting.

The meeting also reviewed the reasons for the postponement of the old summary on the SFC which was sent to the Sindh chief minister.

The meeting discussed in detail various issues to finalize the reorganization of the SFC and decided to complete the process as soon as possible to facilitate the district governments in their budget preparations for the coming fiscal year, keeping in view the SFC.

It was decided that the next meeting to give final shape to the SFC would be held on May 9, where the names of new members from the private sector to be taken on the SFC are expected to be announced.

The constitution of the SFC is vital to get a grant of Rs6 billion from the World Bank to undertake reforms in Sindh. The constitution of the SFC will allow provision of funds to the provincial government, district governments, town and municipal administrations and union councils for their development projects.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Shaikh underlined the need for immediate announcement of the National Finance Commission award to facilitate budget- making in the provinces.

He was of the view that the NFC award should be made keeping in view revenue collection, poverty and population.- APP