LAHORE: In a key governance decision taken in 2026, the Punjab Cabinet approved the creation of hundreds of new government posts across multiple departments to strengthen law enforcement, administration, and public service delivery in the province.

The approvals were granted during the 32nd meeting of the provincial cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, whose government has prioritised institutional strengthening, service delivery reforms, and capacity building since taking office.

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According to official details, the cabinet sanctioned the recruitment of 216 constables in the Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Department and approved the creation of 1,000 new positions in the Crime Control Department. In addition, 980 new posts were approved for the Murree Tourism Police to enhance security and management in tourist areas.

The meeting also approved additional vacancies in the Information Technology and Innovation Department and allowed contract-based appointments in the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab. Permission was granted for the continuation of staff working in the ICT Cell of the Specialised Healthcare and Medical Education Department.

Furthermore, recruitment restrictions were relaxed in the Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Department and allied institutions. The cabinet also approved new rules for the appointment of vice chancellors in public sector medical universities and sanctioned the post of Director Agriculture in the Auqaf Department.

Officials said the decisions reflect the provincial government’s 2026 agenda to improve governance, address staffing shortages, and ensure more efficient delivery of public services across Punjab.