ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Gems and Jewellery Development Company (PGJDC), a subsidiary of the Ministry of Industries and Production, has announced 74 new vacancies despite a federal hiring ban imposed under the government’s ongoing austerity and rightsizing policy.

The development comes as the government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is implementing reforms to cut expenditures and streamline public sector institutions. The policy includes a freeze on new hiring and aims to reduce workforce size while retaining only essential positions.

Sources in the ministry said the vacancies were announced without approval from the relevant authority, raising concerns about compliance with official directives. They added that the financial allocation for these positions remains unclear.

Under the rightsizing plan, up to 60 percent of posts are being abolished, while the remaining workforce is being adjusted to meet operational needs. In this context, officials described the creation of new positions as inconsistent with the broader policy framework.

Sources further said the Pakistan Gems and Jewellery Development Company has remained largely inactive for several years, with offices reportedly closed, adding to concerns over the timing and justification of the hiring move.

The development has drawn attention within official circles, with questions raised over adherence to fiscal discipline and policy implementation during the ongoing reform process.