SM Tanveer backs Mian Amer Mahmood's call for new provinces in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – United Business Group (UBG) Patron-in-Chief SM Tanveer has supported Punjab Group Chairman Mian Amer Mahmood’s stance on the creation of new provinces in Pakistan.

Speaking on Dunya News programme Dunya with Mehr Bukhari, he said that the points raised by Amer Mahmood were important and aligned with UBG’s position, adding that the formation of new provinces was possible.

He revealed that the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has set up a research cell, which has recommended greater focus on district-level economies.

New provinces to foster justice and economic growth: Mian Amer Mahmood

According to Tanveer, the country’s current system cannot sustain growth without innovative solutions and structural reforms.

Provincial structure

Tanveer noted that Pakistan has 36 administrative divisions that must be empowered. He drew comparisons with India, which had nine provinces at the time of partition and now has 36 states. He emphasised that Pakistan, which began with four provinces, must also rethink its provincial model to strengthen governance and boost the economy.

Legislative process

The UBG chief highlighted that the federal government has stated the matter must first go to the Council of Common Interests (CCI). Following this, the creation of new provinces would require a two-thirds majority approval in the assemblies before implementation by the federal government.

Economic focus

Tanveer underlined that Punjab cannot be viewed only through Lahore, pointing out that many districts have been left behind and must be given authority. He said UBG’s stance was not political, but rooted in strengthening Pakistan’s economy by devolving powers to the grassroots level. Without empowering lower tiers, he warned, the country would struggle to move forward.