Ministry of States and Frontier Regions (Pakistan)

The Ministry of States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) is a ministry of the Government of Pakistan. Its primary responsibility is to manage relations between Pakistan and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), Frontier Regions (FRs), and the erstwhile princely states, with a particular focus on tribal affairs, development, and integration of these regions into the mainstream of Pakistan.

Specifically, SAFRON historically dealt with:

• Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA): Prior to their merger with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2018, SAFRON was the main governmental body overseeing FATA. Its responsibilities included development projects, security coordination, and administering the political and administrative apparatus of the region.
• Frontier Regions (FRs): Similar to FATA, SAFRON played a role in the administration and development of the Frontier Regions, which were smaller administrative units adjacent to the settled districts.
• Relations with Afghanistan: Due to the close proximity and shared tribal populations along the border with Afghanistan, SAFRON often played a key role in managing relations with Afghanistan, particularly concerning cross-border movement, security, and refugee issues.
• Kashmir Affairs: While a separate Ministry of Kashmir Affairs exists, SAFRON has often been involved in aspects related to the social and economic development of areas adjacent to Azad Kashmir.

Following the merger of FATA with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through the 25th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan in 2018, the role and functions of SAFRON have significantly changed. Its focus has shifted to facilitating the integration of the former FATA areas into the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and ensuring the smooth transition of administrative, legal, and development structures. The ministry now primarily works to support the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in addressing the needs of the newly merged districts. The ministry continues to address issues related to refugees, particularly Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan.