In a country where public trust in governance has often been as unpredictable as the monsoon rains, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s first year in power offers a refreshing glimpse of hope-as evident from recent surveys conducted across 36 districts. That 55 per cent of Punjabis are satisfied with the government’s performance over the past year is no small feat. Urban areas, buoyed by visible improvements, show an impressive 62% approval, while rural regions, though trailing at 48%, reflect a cautious optimism. What makes these indicators believable is the undeniable and extremely tangible progress achieved in key sectors that directly impact the everyday lives of the people. Her focused efforts to reduce commodity prices-most notably cutting the price of roti-earned praise from 44% of respondents, offering a much-needed respite for families grappling with inflation and the escalating cost of living. Yet, despite these notable achievements, the economic reality for many Pakistanis remains daunting. Ordinary citizens continue to face soaring prices for basic necessities, stagnant wages, and an ever-present threat of unemployment. While the government’s efforts have helped alleviate some immediate pressures, a clear gap persists between policy successes and the lived experiences of struggling households. With 63% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of employment generation, there is a pressing need for comprehensive economic reforms. What truly sets this administration apart is its commitment to data-backed decision-making. The launch of initiatives like the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry represents a forward-thinking strategy designed to ensure that welfare programs reach the most vulnerable segments of society. However, as Punjab moves forward, a cautious note must still be struck. Economic recovery and sustained growth depend on more than just isolated reforms; they require a holistic approach that addresses the systemic challenges undermining the prosperity of ordinary citizens. Critics argue that while immediate interventions have provided some relief, long-term economic sustainability will hinge on more robust investments in job creation, education, and infrastructure-especially in rural areas where the benefits of progress are not yet fully realized. *