Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday formally launched Pakistan’s New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025-30, describing it as a landmark step towards clean transport, industrial modernization, and youth empowerment. At a ceremony held in Islamabad, the premier emphasized that the new framework was not only about introducing green technology but also about reshaping Pakistan’s economic and social outlook for the future. He underlined the government’s resolve to cut emissions, reduce reliance on costly petroleum imports, and align national policy with climate-friendly development goals. Shehbaz Sharif credited his industries aide Haroon Akhtar Khan, Federal Minister Rana Tanvir Hussain, and the industries secretary for their role in shaping what he called a forward-looking framework. He also expressed appreciation for the British government and UK High Commissioner for providing technical support during the policy design process.
Speaking at the event, the prime minister highlighted that the NEV Policy goes beyond addressing transport needs by actively investing in youth and their future. As part of the launch ceremony, electric scooters were distributed to a group of high-achieving students from different provinces who had secured top positions in intermediate examinations. He stressed that the distribution process was strictly merit-based, while also allocating an additional 10 percent quota for students from Balochistan to ensure representation from underserved regions. In addition to the scooters, Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed his government’s commitment to expanding opportunities for young people by announcing that 100,000 laptops would soon be distributed among high achievers. He proposed increasing the budget for this program from the current Rs9 billion to Rs90 billion in the next fiscal year, linking it with the broader vision of creating a knowledge-driven economy.
The NEV Policy 2025-30 has been positioned as a comprehensive blueprint for Pakistan’s clean transport transition. Haroon Akhtar Khan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, said that the initiative should be viewed as more than just a statement of intent. According to him, Pakistan’s dependence on fuel imports costs the economy billions every year, while air pollution in urban centers contributes to an estimated Rs105 billion in healthcare and productivity losses. He explained that the government’s goal is not simply to focus on electric vehicle assembly but to expand into battery production, charging infrastructure, and advanced parts manufacturing. This, he said, would stimulate domestic industry, create jobs, and open new avenues for investment and innovation.
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanvir Hussain, who initially introduced the policy framework during his previous tenure as industries minister, expressed pride in witnessing its official launch. He reflected on the long journey of consultations and adjustments that had gone into shaping the policy, which has now been formally adopted as part of Pakistan’s national strategy. With its focus on reducing carbon emissions, cutting import bills, and empowering the country’s youth, the NEV Policy is expected to drive both environmental and industrial benefits over the next five years. By promoting innovation and supporting young people with tools such as e-scooters and laptops, the government aims to establish a foundation for cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive economic growth.
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