Islamabad, February 11, 2025: The Punjab cabinet, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, made several landmark decisions today, including the approval of a Rs30 billion Ramadan package aimed at benefiting 30 million people, and the recruitment of nearly 6,000 constables.
The cabinet approved the “Nigahban Ramadan” package, a Rs30 billion initiative designed to support low-income families during the holy month of Ramadan. Starting next year, the government will introduce an ATM card system that allows beneficiaries to receive Rs10,000 directly at home, eliminating the need for long queues at distribution points.
In another major development, CM Maryam Nawaz announced a new policy aimed at attracting investment and transforming Punjab into a leading industrial hub. The policy seeks to streamline bureaucratic processes and provide a range of incentives for entrepreneurs. “We want investors to come, establish industries, and begin operations while legal procedures follow in parallel,” she stated.
The cabinet also approved the “Zero Time to Start” policy for Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Industrial Estates, and Small Industrial Estates. This policy will facilitate the faster issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs), aiming to create a more business-friendly environment. Maryam emphasized the government’s commitment to simplifying industrial setup procedures and providing industrialists with essential support.
On the law enforcement front, the cabinet authorized the recruitment of 5,960 constables. In addition, the mass transit system will provide free travel for special individuals and senior citizens. A new student travel card will be introduced, and discussions were held regarding the launch of a tram service in the region.
In healthcare, the cabinet approved Rs580 million in funding for the procurement of a “Cryoablation” machine, which offers an alternative treatment for cancer patients. Funds were also allocated for upgrading special education centers across the province to improve accessibility and provide disability-friendly facilities.
The cabinet further authorized special transport services for people with disabilities and approved the hiring of 127 staff members at the Punjab Mass Transit Authority. Additionally, 87 positions will be filled at the Children Protection and Welfare Bureau, and the age limit for certain health-related positions will be extended to 65 years.
Other approvals included the hiring of staff for 25 positions in the Specialized Health Care and Medical Education Department’s ICT, four positions at the Danesh Schools in Tunsa and Mankira, and additional grants to the Forest Department for filling vacant positions.
The cabinet also authorized the recruitment of 500 personnel for traffic management in Murree and approved amendments to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965 to implement an Excel Road Management System across Punjab.
To support the agricultural sector, the cabinet approved the provision of 1,000 free tractors in exchange for land revenue. Additionally, the first phase of a plan to replace 353 Rescue 1122 vehicles will begin with the replacement of 117 ambulances.
