Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled an ambitious development agenda, announcing that for the first time in the province’s history, 13,000 new startups have been launched through interest-free loans. She said this initiative aims to encourage entrepreneurship, generate employment, and strengthen the economy, stressing that industrial growth remains the only path toward sustainable progress and prosperity for Punjab.
During a meeting with a delegation from the 55th Staff Course of the Pakistan Navy War College, led by Rear Admiral Sohail Ahmed Azmi, the chief minister shared details of ongoing welfare and infrastructure projects. She also welcomed officers from all three armed forces as well as participants from 15 friendly countries, including Palestine, while reiterating her government’s firm support for the Palestinian cause.
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Highlighting health sector achievements, Maryam Nawaz announced that the world’s largest government cancer hospital with 1,000 beds is under construction in Lahore and will be completed within ten months. She revealed that after her recent China visit, Punjab had acquired a co-ablation machine, allowing advanced cancer treatment without surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, making modern healthcare accessible within the province.
She added that the first Institute of Cardiology for the Sargodha division was nearing completion, while more than 2,500 health centers had been upgraded into full-fledged hospitals. Moreover, mobile field hospitals and clinics-on-wheels were now providing treatment in rural and urban areas, alongside Pakistan’s largest rescue operation that saved 2.5 million people and provided them with food and shelter during recent emergencies.
On infrastructure and environmental reforms, the chief minister noted that 20,000 kilometers of roads had been constructed or repaired under provincial development programs. She announced the introduction of anti-smog guns to curb pollution, the appointment of wildlife rangers to protect natural habitats, and new urban beautification drives. Additionally, 1,100 electric buses are being introduced to provide modern, eco-friendly travel at a subsidized fare of just Rs20 per ride.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that these projects represent a holistic approach to governance, focusing on health, transport, environment, and industrial development. She said these initiatives would not only uplift living standards but also transform Punjab into a hub of innovation, progress, and modern public service delivery.