Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the Maryam Nawaz Ration Card Programme, aimed at providing financial support to more than 1.25 million labourer families across the province.

Speaking at the launch event held at Lahore’s Expo Centre, CM Maryam emphasized that the initiative is designed to empower hardworking individuals rather than offer charity. “This programme is for those who work 12 to 14 hours a day. They deserve dignity, not charity,” she said.

Under the scheme, eligible labourers will receive a monthly subsidy of Rs. 3,000 through a digital ration card system. Additionally, the Chief Minister announced plans to construct 1,220 houses for labourers to improve their living conditions.

The launch ceremony was attended by senior provincial ministers, including Maryam Aurangzeb and Uzma Bukhari. CM Maryam also toured the event stalls and received briefings on the programme’s operational details.

During her address, she highlighted other welfare initiatives underway in Punjab, such as the expansion of the Green Bus Service with 500 new buses, ongoing work on the Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital, and the upcoming opening of a new cardiology hospital in June.

Further pledging her government’s commitment to social welfare, Maryam Nawaz promised the construction of 100,000 new homes, distribution of 100,000 laptops to students, and scholarships for 50,000 deserving youth, underscoring her vision for a “compassionate and inclusive” Punjab.