Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue reviewed key issues related to bank charges, telecom costs, and salary increments for university faculty.

The meeting was chaired by Saleem Mandviwalla and attended by officials from the Finance Ministry, FBR, banking sector, and telecom companies.

The committee was informed that mobile banking SMS charges fall into two categories: mandatory charges imposed by the State Bank of Pakistan and additional charges applied with customer consent. The banking sector is paying approximately Rs. 25.6 billion annually to telecom companies while generating Rs. 18.7 billion, resulting in a loss of Rs. 6.9 billion.

Telecom representatives stated that around Rs. 3.40 is charged per SMS for banking services, with costs increasing by 88% since 2018. The committee directed stakeholders to submit detailed data on affected customers and charges.

The issue of unpaid honorarium for medical and PTV staff deployed during the budget session was also discussed, with the committee recommending immediate approval and warning of action in case of non-compliance.

The committee termed the lack of salary increases for university faculty over the past decade as unjust and sought a report within 15 days.

The classification of PU leather was also reviewed, with FBR advising affected parties to file an appeal for further consideration. The committee endorsed the recommendation.