Business Recorder
LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari has said that Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s tireless efforts, dedication, and commitment to public service have established new standards of good governance in the province. She said the recent survey showing 69 percent public satisfaction with the Chief Minister’s performance is clear evidence of the people’s strong trust in their leadership. While addressing a press conference alongside Provincial Minister for Agriculture Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, Azma emphasized that public opinion remains the foremost priority for any leader. In the past, governments failed to complete even 100 projects over five years, whereas Maryam Nawaz Sharif has not only initiated more than 100 projects within a single year but more than half of them are already operational. She noted that Punjab’s resources have always been available, but they are now being directed effectively toward public welfare. She highlighted that the CM has eliminated the culture of citizens having to visit government offices repeatedly. Through the “Maryam Ki Dastak” programme, essential services such as birth and death certificates are being delivered at people’s doorsteps. Azma further added that healthcare services are being extended to remote areas through field hospitals and “Clinic on Wheels” initiatives, while major hospitals have been completed in record time—demonstrating the government’s efficiency. Highlighting reforms in the transport sector, she said that new metro systems and green buses are already operational. By the end of April, 100 new buses will be added to the fleet, followed by an additional 400 buses by the end of May, ensuring that no district in Punjab remains without access to green public transport. Speaking on agriculture, she said that a historic multi-billion-rupee package has been introduced for farmers, and despite IMF programme constraints, the government is safeguarding farmers’ interests. Azma Bokhari further stated that while Maryam Nawaz Sharif is focused on launching projects such as metro systems, buses, and home delivery of free medicines, some elements remain engaged in protests, negativity, and conspiracies against the country. Responding to questions, she remarked that certain individuals pretend to be disabled despite being in good health, adding the government is more concerned about their wellbeing than even their own families. She stressed that the government is committed to stability and development, unlike those who pushed the country toward default. The journey of Punjab’s progress, she asserted, will not be derailed by conspiracies. While addressing the regional issue, Azma said that the region is currently facing war-like conditions, and neighbouring countries are experiencing severe shortages of petroleum products, with long queues and limited availability of fuel and gas. In contrast, the government has ensured uninterrupted supply of petroleum products in Pakistan, she added. She added that while some technical aspects of petroleum pricing are not directly controlled by the government, addressing public concerns remains its responsibility. She acknowledged that past governments failed to build adequate capacity in the energy sector or install sufficient power plants—an issue that is now under review. Regarding the motorcycle subsidy program, she stated that payments have begun for individuals whose registration and verification have been completed. The government has granted a one-month extension and waived registration fees during this period. Those who have not yet registered have been advised to complete the process within the given timeframe to avail the subsidy. She clarified that no segment of society, particularly persons with disabilities, has been excluded from the subsidy program. Misleading media reports in this regard have already been addressed by the government with factual clarification. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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