The dynamic leadership of Maryam Nawaz

Maryam Nawaz’s vision for Punjab represents a transformative approach to governance, emphasizing social welfare, inclusivity, and long-term development. Through her commitment to addressing the needs of the marginalized, she has sought to implement policies that prioritize education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social safety nets. A key aspect of her vision is fostering a more inclusive society where every individual, regardless of their socioeconomic background, has access to basic services and opportunities. This includes ensuring that the most vulnerable groups such as women, children, and those from disadvantaged areas benefit from government initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation and social equality. Her proposed reforms focus on expanding access to healthcare, improving educational standards, and creating employment opportunities to break the cycle of poverty. Additionally, she advocates for empowering local communities by giving them a greater voice in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. The leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has truly ushered in a new era for Punjab, characterized by groundbreaking initiatives in social welfare and public service. Under her dynamic guidance, the province has seen the introduction of unprecedented measures aimed at empowering marginalized communities, with a particular focus on persons with disabilities and women. One of the most significant milestones achieved in 2024 is the launch of the Himmat Card Programme, which offers financial assistance to persons with disabilities who are unable to work. With an initial budget of Rs 2.6 billion, this initiative provided financial aid to 40,000 beneficiaries, and it is set to expand further, ultimately benefiting 65,000 individuals. Equally important is the Assistive Devices and Wheelchair Programme, with a budget of Rs 1 billion. Through this initiative, 17,000 applicants will receive 17 different types of assistive devices, including artificial limbs, thereby improving their mobility and quality of life. This initiative exemplifies the government’s commitment to helping persons with disabilities live more independent and dignified lives. The Dhee Rani Program, another remarkable initiative, aims to support low-income families by organizing collective marriages across Punjab. With a budget of Rs. 1 billion, the program provides newlyweds with valuable gifts, including furniture, jewelry, and Rs. 100,000 in cash from the Chief Minister. In addition, the establishment of the Council for the Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the creation of District Welfare and Rehabilitation Units (DWRUs) are vital measures to ensure the protection and promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities. The enforcement of a 3% employment quota for persons with disabilities in both public and private sectors is another significant achievement. The government has also prioritized the economic empowerment of women, with initiatives such as the Sanat Zar Expo 2024, which saw the participation of over 200 women entrepreneurs and generated sales exceeding Rs. 2 million. Training and skill development programs have been implemented for tens of thousands of women, with a focus on digital literacy, e-commerce, and marketing expertise. Through partnerships with international organizations, the Department of Social Welfare has organized impactful awareness campaigns on important social issues, such as Universal Children’s Day and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The government remains committed to expanding support for marginalized communities, establishing more skill development centers, and reinforcing protections against gender-based violence. The efforts of Maryam Nawaz are leading Punjab toward a more inclusive and just society, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Her visionary leadership promises continued progress, with far-reaching impacts that will shape the province for years to come. Under Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, the hope is to cultivate a prosperous Punjab, promoting social justice and a brighter future for all its residents. This vision aims to create a strong, united province that plays a pivotal role in the national development of Pakistan.