The Government of Pakistan is planning a major reform under the name of “Rightsizing”. This means that the federal government may reduce, merge, or restructure departments and institutions to save costs and improve efficiency.
This new policy is now a hot topic because it may affect thousands of public employees, especially those working in educational, cultural, and literary institutions.
But what is rightsizing? Who will be affected? What has Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said about it? Let’s explore everything in simple words.
What Is Rightsizing of the Federal Government?
Rightsizing is when the government decides to:
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Merge two or more departments
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Shut down underperforming institutions
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Reduce staff and expenses
The goal is to:
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Improve governance
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Save money
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Eliminate duplication of work
But this step has created concerns in many sectors, especially in the literary, cultural, and academic communities of Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Meeting with Senator Irfan Siddiqui
On July 1, 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Senator Irfan Siddiqui, a senior leader of PML-N. Senator Siddiqui expressed concern over the rightsizing recommendations that could affect knowledge-based institutions, like:
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Arts Councils
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Literary Boards
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Academic Foundations
These are the organizations that protect and promote Pakistan’s culture, poetry, language, and art.
Senator Siddiqui told the PM that writers, poets, intellectuals, and teachers across Pakistan were worried about the possible closure or merger of such organizations.
PM’s Assurance: No Shutdown of Literary Institutions
In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured that:
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There will be no closure or forced merger of academic, literary, or cultural institutions.
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The government respects the importance of education, literature, and arts.
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Any rightsizing decision will be well-thought-out and public-friendly.
This assurance has reduced fear among the public and professionals related to these fields.
Why Is Rightsizing Needed?
Here are the main reasons behind this government decision:
1. Budget Deficit
The federal government is facing serious financial pressure and aims to cut non-developmental spending.
2. Duplicate Departments
Some departments perform similar functions and can be merged for better output.
3. Improved Governance
Fewer departments mean better coordination, less corruption, and faster decision-making.
Who Could Be Affected?
Though PM has given assurance, rightsizing may still impact:
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Contract-based government employees
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Non-performing departments
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Staff in small or inactive institutions
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Redundant posts and unused assets
Those working in literary boards, education offices, and government research bodies are watching closely.
Public Reaction: Mixed Feelings
People are reacting differently:
✅ Supporters say:
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It will reduce corruption
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Government will save money
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Services will improve
❌ Critics say:
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It will result in job losses
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It may damage the education and cultural sector
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Important institutions might disappear
What Are Experts Saying?
Experts believe the government should:
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Review each institution carefully
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Avoid closing institutions that protect Pakistan’s culture
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Involve stakeholders and experts before decisions
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Use digital transformation instead of layoffs
Final Thoughts
Rightsizing of the federal government is a bold reform, but it needs to be handled carefully.
✅ If done with planning, it can improve service delivery.
❌ But if rushed, it may hurt Pakistan’s education, art, and cultural heritage.
For now, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has promised that no literary or cultural institution will be shut down. But the public will remain alert and continue to monitor the situation closely.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is rightsizing of the federal government in Pakistan?
Rightsizing is the process of reducing or merging government departments to cut costs and improve performance.
Which institutions may be affected?
Government academic, literary, and cultural institutions were under review, but PM has assured no closures will happen.
Is rightsizing the same as downsizing?
No. Downsizing means job cuts only. Rightsizing may include restructuring, merging departments, and policy shifts.
Will government employees lose their jobs?
There may be some adjustments or transfers, but no mass layoffs are expected yet.
Why is the government doing this now?
Due to budget constraints, rising inflation, and global loan conditions, the government is trying to spend smartly.