IT is surely a matter of pride for people of Punjab that their province is continuing its journey on the road to progress and prosperity under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The latest decisions of the provincial cabinet are certainly in continuation of the efforts of the CM to promote welfare of the people, good governance and transparency.
The Cabinet has approved a hefty Ramadan package of Rs. 30 billion, which will, hopefully, serve as a major relief to the people in the holy month when prices normally go up significantly. What makes the “Nigahban Ramadan” package significant is the fact that the provincial government intends to launch an ATM card enabling deserving people to receive a cash amount of Rs. 10,000 in a hassle free environment to spend on their legitimate needs. Similarly, the decision to introduce free travel for special individuals and senior citizens in the mass transit system as well as special travel cards for students will mean much for relevant categories and families. In another important move, the cabinet also approved a Zero Time to Start policy for Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Industrial Estates and Small Industrial Estates. The aim is to provide business owners with a fast-tracked process for obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and to foster a business-friendly environment. Going a step further, the Chief Minister has decided that investors would be welcomed to establish industries in the province without facing lengthy bureaucratic processes. They will be allowed to set up industries and start working while legal formalities will follow. Several other initiatives like distribution of one thousand tractors free of cost, replacement of old vehicles of Rescue 1122 and procurement of a “Cryoablation” machine for cancer patients will go a long way in promoting welfare of the people.
