Punjab Cabinet Approves Wide-Ranging Reforms for Public Welfare
In a major policy move, the Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, held its 24th meeting to approve reforms focused on public welfare, economic stability, and law enforcement. The agenda covered initiatives benefiting students, senior citizens, and individuals with special needs while addressing legal, infrastructural, and administrative concerns.
Read more: Punjab Announces Eidul Fitr Holidays for Schools
Free Transport for Students, Seniors, and Special Persons
A key decision was the introduction of free public transport for students, senior citizens, and individuals with special needs across Punjab. The government reviewed a proposal to issue transport cards, making daily commutes easier and more affordable.
Economic Relief and Price Control
The Chief Minister directed authorities to regulate poultry prices and ensure affordability of essential goods. She praised the Nigehban Ramazan Relief Program, which has already provided financial aid to over 2.5 million households, with plans to extend ration cards to an additional 1.5 million families.
Strict measures were also announced to prevent inflation and stabilize prices during Eid-ul-Fitr. Officials were commended for maintaining the most economical Ramadan markets in 15 years.
Law and Order Enhancements
To combat rising sexual crimes, the cabinet approved the creation of Special Investigation Units for swift action and preventive measures. Other security measures include:
- A zero-tolerance policy for unpaid traffic fines to enforce traffic discipline.
- 3,904 new positions in the Punjab Crime Control Department.
- A 2,000-member Riot Management Police force for civil disturbances.
Infrastructure and Aviation Development
The cabinet approved the construction of new airports in Bhakkar and Bahawalnagar, along with funding for an airstrip in Bhakkar to support emergency air ambulance services. A proposal for a Punjab provincial airline was also discussed.
Education and Student Welfare
Student-focused initiatives included:
- Eid gifts for 40,000 special students.
- A new grading system in collaboration with the World Bank.
- Employment opportunities for 664 visually impaired individuals.
The cabinet also rejected a proposal to ban the cultivation of two rice crops, protecting farmers’ interests.
Legal and Administrative Reforms
Governance improvements included:
- Amjad Pervez appointed as Advocate General of Punjab, with a focus on merit-based recruitment.
- One-year waiver on birth and death certificate fees to ease financial burdens.
- Amendments to Punjab Legal Aid Rules to ensure free legal support for underprivileged citizens.
- Stricter penalties for illegal arms possession, strengthening the Punjab Arms Ordinance.
Employment and Institutional Growth
The cabinet approved various job opportunities:
- Recruitment for Sheikh Zayed Medical College’s Cardiac Center in Rahim Yar Khan.
- Hiring for Punjab Life Insurance Company (PLIC) in key positions.
- Expansion of specialized units within the Finance Department.
- Establishment of 32 new positions at the Nawaz Sharif Center of Excellence for Early Childhood Education in Lahore.
Addressing Public Concerns
The Chief Minister also emphasized policies to ensure Pakistan benefits from its pink salt industry, countering foreign repackaging exploitation. She reassured that Punjab is not diverting water from other provinces, addressing misconceptions about water distribution policies.
These wide-ranging reforms aim to enhance economic relief, public services, and law enforcement across Punjab.
