The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved a Technical Supplementary Grant (TSG) worth Rs10 million for the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs to cover catering expenses for lawmakers during the ongoing federal budget session.

According to official sources, the ministry requested additional funds to meet the cost of providing working lunches, dinners, and tea for members of the National Assembly and Senate throughout the budget proceedings.

The ministry explained that the federal budget session is a constitutionally required and time-intensive process, often involving extended sittings that continue beyond regular working hours. It added that arrangements for meals and refreshments at Parliament House are part of routine administrative support during such prolonged sessions.

Officials further stated that the allocated budget under the head “Entertainment and Gifts” was insufficient to cover these recurring expenses during the session. Since the Finance Bill must be passed within set constitutional timelines, the expenditure was described as unavoidable.

Following review, the Finance Division endorsed the proposal, and the ECC approved the additional Rs10 million allocation under Demand No. 81 of the Parliamentary Affairs Division for the fiscal year 2025–26.