Maryam Nawaz, addressing the Punjab Assembly on Friday, outlined a bold vision for the province’s future, emphasizing sweeping reforms across key sectors. Highlighting her government’s achievements in the first 100 days and laying out plans for the future, the Punjab Chief Minister articulated a comprehensive agenda aimed at uplifting the lives of Punjab’s residents.
In a landmark budget speech, Maryam Nawaz underscored the multifaceted approach her administration plans to take, starting with significant initiatives in agriculture. She announced plans to modernize agriculture through the introduction of solar systems for tube-wells, subsidized tractors, and farm equipment. Emphasizing economic empowerment, the government will subsidize 70% of the tractor’s cost, requiring farmers to pay only the remaining 30%.
Moving to the education sector, Maryam Nawaz expressed her commitment to reform by introducing innovative measures such as providing milk to primary school students, a project estimated at Rs27 billion. She also announced the relaunch of the laptop scheme aimed at outstanding students, with plans to provide IT training to 300,000 students annually, supported by Google’s technology expertise. Skill development in schools was highlighted as a priority to prepare students for future challenges.
Despite interruptions from opposition members, Maryam Nawaz remained focused on her agenda, urging the speaker to disregard distractions. She proceeded to outline the details of the tax-free Punjab budget for 2024-25, a first in the province’s history, aimed at relieving financial burdens on the public.
Turning to healthcare, the Chief Minister announced plans to upgrade hospitals across Punjab, reinstating the delivery of free medicines to patients, a service discontinued by the previous administration. Free medications will be provided to patients suffering from critical illnesses like cancer and hepatitis, signaling a compassionate approach to healthcare.
A significant announcement was the introduction of the Himmat Card, an initiative aimed at supporting disabled individuals with wheelchairs, marking a milestone in Punjab’s social welfare initiatives.
