LAHORE (APP): Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved a major welfare package designed to strengthen financial security and promote social inclusion for visually impaired citizens across Punjab. The initiative marks one of the most significant steps taken by the provincial government to directly address the needs of persons with disabilities, particularly those who have long struggled for recognition and support.
Monthly Stipend for Registered Beneficiaries
A spokesperson for the Social Welfare and Bait‑ul‑Mal Department confirmed that the government will provide a monthly stipend of Rs12,000 to 5,000 registered visually impaired individuals. This financial assistance, structured under existing rules and regulations, is intended to ease the economic burden faced by thousands of families and ensure that beneficiaries can meet their basic needs with dignity. Officials emphasized that the stipend is not a one‑time measure but part of a sustained framework to provide consistent relief.
Dialogue with Protestors and Resolution of Concerns
The announcement followed weeks of demonstrations by visually impaired citizens demanding greater government support. Provincial authorities, under the directives of Minister for Social Welfare Sohail Shaukat Butt, engaged in detailed negotiations with protest leaders. Senior officers from the department held multiple rounds of talks, while Director General Social Welfare Tariq Qureshi personally met with representatives to hear their grievances. The successful conclusion of these discussions paved the way for the Chief Minister’s approval of the stipend, signaling the government’s willingness to listen and respond to marginalized communities.
Dedicated Job Quota for Visually Impaired Persons
In addition to financial assistance, the Punjab government has introduced a dedicated job quota specifically for visually impaired individuals. This quota will operate within the existing 3 percent disability quota but ensures that visually impaired citizens are not overlooked in recruitment processes. All government departments have been instructed to immediately implement the policy and advertise vacant positions reserved for persons with disabilities. Officials noted that this measure is designed to provide long‑term empowerment by opening pathways to employment, rather than relying solely on financial aid.
Strengthening Legal and Institutional Frameworks
The Social Welfare Department has also moved to strengthen institutional mechanisms to guarantee that these reforms are implemented effectively. Departments across Punjab have been directed to coordinate with the Social Welfare and Bait‑ul‑Mal authorities to ensure transparency in stipend distribution and fairness in job recruitment. Monitoring committees are expected to be established to oversee compliance, while awareness campaigns will inform visually impaired citizens of their rights under the new framework.
Government’s Commitment to Inclusion and Dignity
The spokesperson emphasized that the Punjab government remains committed to providing meaningful economic relief and social protection to visually impaired citizens. Beyond financial support, the initiative reflects a broader vision of inclusion — empowering individuals to live independently, participate in society, and contribute to the province’s development. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has repeatedly highlighted the importance of policies that uplift vulnerable groups, framing this decision as part of her administration’s wider agenda of social justice and equality.
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