PAKISTAN: The Auditor General of Pakistan (AGP) has raised concerns over the utilisation of Rs75 billion released under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Achievement Programme, citing the absence of key records required to verify expenditure and project outcomes.
According to the latest audit report, incomplete documentation prevented auditors from determining whether the funds were spent for their intended purposes.
What shortcomings did the audit identify?
The report states that the Cabinet Division failed to provide project completion certificates, monthly progress reports and project-wise records to the audit.
It also found that area-wise details of the projects were unavailable, making it impossible to verify where and how the funds were utilised.
What was the purpose of the programme?
The Rs75 billion was approved during the 2024–25 fiscal year under the Sustainable Development Goals Achievement Programme for development schemes undertaken by provincial governments, federal ministries, divisions and other executing agencies.
The programme was intended to support development in underdeveloped and backward areas, improve social infrastructure, promote human resource development and ensure balanced regional development.
Why could the audit not verify the spending?
The Auditor General reported that the absence of essential documents prevented verification of both expenditure and project outcomes.
The report stated that available records were insufficient to determine whether the allocation and utilisation of funds were consistent with the programme’s objective of equitable regional development.
Did the Cabinet Division respond to the audit?
According to the report, the audit formally raised the issue with the Cabinet Division on November 5, 2025, but no response was received before the report was finalised.
What recommendations has the Auditor General made?
The Auditor General recommended that the Cabinet Division establish a centralised monitoring system to maintain project-wise, sector-wise and area-wise records of funds released under the Sustainable Development Goals Achievement Programme.
The report said such a system is necessary to strengthen transparency, monitoring and accountability in the utilisation of public development funds.