After 18 amendment, now how do the provinces in Pakistan collaborate with the federal Government for policy making

 After the 18th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan, which was enacted in April 2010, the relationship between the federal government and the provinces underwent significant changes, particularly in terms of policy-making and governance. Here's how the provinces collaborate with the federal government for policy-making after the 18th Amendment:

1. Council of Common Interests (CCI)

  • Role: The CCI was strengthened as a key institution for collaboration between the federal and provincial governments. It is responsible for formulating and regulating policies in areas of common interest, such as natural resources, electricity, and economic planning.
  • Composition: The CCI includes the Prime Minister as its head and the Chief Ministers of all four provinces, along with three members nominated by the Prime Minister.
  • Functioning: The CCI meets regularly (at least once every 90 days) to discuss and resolve issues between the provinces and the federal government. Decisions made by the CCI are binding on both the federal and provincial governments.

2. National Economic Council (NEC)

  • Role: The NEC is another important body for coordination between the federal and provincial governments. It is tasked with the preparation of the national economic development plan and coordination of economic policies.
  • Composition: The NEC is chaired by the Prime Minister and includes the Chief Ministers of all provinces and other members appointed by the federal government.
  • Functioning: The NEC meets periodically to ensure that provincial and federal economic policies are aligned and that development planning reflects the needs of both the federal government and the provinces.

3. Inter-Provincial Coordination Committee (IPCC)

  • Role: The IPCC was established to resolve disputes between provinces and between provinces and the federal government. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that policies are uniformly implemented across the country.
  • Composition: The IPCC is chaired by the Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination and includes provincial ministers for inter-provincial coordination.
  • Functioning: The IPCC serves as a forum for provinces to express their concerns and collaborate on policy issues, ensuring that provincial interests are adequately represented in federal policymaking.

4. Joint Working Groups and Committees

  • Role: Ad hoc joint working groups and committees are often established to address specific policy issues, such as health, education, and infrastructure. These groups typically include representatives from both federal and provincial governments.
  • Functioning: These groups collaborate to draft policies, share expertise, and ensure that both provincial and federal perspectives are considered in decision-making.

5. Legislative Powers

  • Provincial Autonomy: The 18th Amendment granted greater autonomy to provinces by devolving powers in key areas such as education, health, and agriculture. Provinces now have the authority to legislate and implement policies in these areas.
  • Residual Powers: Areas not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution are considered under provincial jurisdiction, unless specifically assigned to the federal government.

6. Dispute Resolution Mechanisms

  • Role: If disputes arise between the federal government and provinces, or among the provinces themselves, these are often resolved through the CCI or the IPCC. The Constitution also provides for judicial review by the Supreme Court in cases of legal disputes over jurisdiction.

Conclusion

The 18th Amendment has led to a more decentralized and collaborative approach to governance in Pakistan. The provinces now have a greater role in policy-making, particularly in areas that directly impact their populations. However, the federal government still plays a significant role in coordinating and ensuring uniformity in national policies through bodies like the CCI, NEC, and IPCC. This collaborative framework is designed to balance provincial autonomy with the need for national cohesion and development.

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