TAXILA: The Punjab government has distributed 55 Minority Cards to members of the Christian community in Taxila and Wah as part of a provincial welfare programme aimed at providing financial assistance to underprivileged non-Muslim households.

According to local officials, the cards were distributed during a ceremony organized by the local administration, with 14 women and 41 men among the beneficiaries. Under the scheme, eligible families receive Rs10,500 every three months through a digital card or bank transfer to help cover basic expenses such as food, education and utility bills.

Assistant Commissioner Maria Javed said the initiative reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to supporting minority communities and improving their socio-economic conditions. She expressed hope that further welfare programmes would be introduced in line with the provincial government’s development vision.

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She noted that the Minority Card Scheme provides financial assistance to thousands of deserving families and that the scope of the programme is expected to expand in the future.

PML-N divisional president Malik Umar Farooq also addressed the ceremony and said the Punjab government, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, is working to provide essential services and support to people at their doorstep, including minority communities.

He said the programme aims to strengthen financial stability among disadvantaged minority families while encouraging their participation in government initiatives and development programmes.

Representatives of the Christian community thanked the Punjab government for the initiative and expressed appreciation for efforts aimed at promoting interfaith harmony and providing welfare support to minority groups.

Officials said the Minority Card initiative is part of broader provincial efforts to promote social inclusion and provide targeted assistance to underprivileged communities across Punjab.