ISLAMABAD: The World Bank has sanctioned a financial package of $149.7 million for two initiatives in Pakistan aimed at bolstering the digital economy and enhancing flood resilience.

The statement released by the global lender details that $78 million is earmarked for the Digital Economy Enhancement Project, anticipated to upgrade financial management via innovative, technology-based solutions and informed, data-centric decision-making processes.

This infusion into the dig

In parallel, an investment of $71.7 million dedicated to the Sindh Barrages Improvement Project is projected to significantly bolster flood defence mechanisms.

In related news, the World Bank had previously greenlit a $100 million fund for the Punjab Family Planning Program last July, with the objective of expanding family planning services in Punjab, Pakistan.

Najy Benhassine, the World Bank's Country Director for Pakistan, underscored the program's goal to universally enhance reproductive healthcare and elevate family planning method usage in Punjab to 60 percent by the year 2030.

He emphasized the program's critical role in Pakistan's progress, noting that unchecked population growth impedes development, slows human capital accumulation, and perpetuates poverty.

The Punjab Family Planning Program is set to ensure accessible, high-quality family planning services at no cost and will standardize care quality throughout the service delivery network.

The initiative will also amplify innovative approaches like clinical franchising, voucher schemes, and family planning counseling by community leaders, which have demonstrated positive impacts on family planning metrics across various districts in Punjab.