The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has taken significant steps to support special individuals by introducing the ‘Himat Card’ and ‘Nigehban Card’ programs under the auspices of the Bait-ul-Mal Department.
In a special meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, various high-ranking officials including Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Senator Pervez Rasheed, Provincial Minister for Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Mal Sohail Shaukat Butt, Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) Sania Ashiq, Principal Secretary, Secretary Social Welfare, and other relevant officials were present.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the initiatives of the Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Mal Department. The Chief Minister Punjab granted in-principle approval for the digitization of the Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Mal Department.
Maryam Nawaz stressed the importance of compiling accurate data on special individuals. As a result, the decision was made to introduce special ‘Himat Card’ and ‘Nigehban Card’ programs for individuals with disabilities who are eligible for employment. Additionally, plans were formulated to launch a loan scheme for individuals, provide wheelchairs, and offer other assistive devices to those with disabilities.
The Chief Minister also directed for a report on the enforcement of regulations regarding ramps and accessible bathrooms for special individuals in government buildings. It was mandated that all new government buildings must include these facilities.
Furthermore, it was decided in the meeting that loans ranging from one to two hundred thousand rupees will be extended to special individuals to foster financial independence.
The meeting also addressed the activation of Skills Development Centers in Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad, with plans for expansion to other districts. Additionally, proposals for auditing Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) working for special individuals and establishing drug rehabilitation centers in each division were discussed.
Approval was granted for the establishment of Violence against Women Centers (VAWC) in every division to combat gender-based violence. Recommendations for the formation of a Women Protection Authority Task Force were also considered during the meeting.
