Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari has said that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s tireless efforts, dedication, and commitment to public service have set new standards of good governance in the province.
She stated that a recent survey indicating 69 per cent public satisfaction with the Chief Minister’s performance reflects strong public trust in her leadership.
Addressing a press conference at the Punjab Assembly along with Provincial Minister for Agriculture Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, Azma Bokhari stated that public opinion remains the top priority for any leader. She noted that previous governments failed to complete even 100 projects in five years, whereas the current leadership has initiated more than 100 projects within a single year, with over half already operational.
She highlighted that Punjab’s resources are now being effectively utilized for public welfare, adding that the government has eliminated the need for citizens to frequently visit offices. Under the “Maryam Ki Dastak” program, essential services such as birth and death certificates are being delivered at people’s doorsteps.
The minister further said that healthcare facilities are being expanded to remote areas through field hospitals and “Clinic on Wheels” initiatives, while major hospitals have been completed in record time, reflecting the government’s efficiency.
Speaking about transport reforms, she said new metro systems and green buses are already operational. She added that 100 more buses will be added by the end of April, followed by another 400 by the end of May, ensuring access to green public transport in every district of Punjab.
On agriculture, Azma Bokhari said a historic multi-billion-rupee package has been introduced for farmers, and despite IMF-related constraints, the government is taking steps to protect farmers’ interests.
She remarked that while the government is focused on development projects such as metro systems, public transport, and free medicine delivery, certain elements are engaged in protests and negative activities. Responding to questions, she criticized individuals she said pretend to be disabled despite being healthy, adding that the government is more concerned about their welfare than even their own families.
The minister reiterated that the government is committed to stability and development, unlike those who pushed the country toward economic uncertainty, adding that Punjab’s progress will not be hindered by conspiracies. Addressing regional concerns, she said the region is currently facing war-like conditions, with neighboring countries experiencing shortages of petroleum products and long queues for fuel and gas. In contrast, she said, Pakistan has ensured uninterrupted supply. She acknowledged that while some aspects of petroleum pricing are beyond direct government control, addressing public concerns remains its responsibility. She added that shortcomings in energy sector capacity from previous governments are now under review.
Regarding the motorcycle subsidy scheme, she said payments have begun for verified applicants. The government has extended the registration deadline by one month and waived registration fees during this period. She urged those who have not yet registered to complete the process to benefit from the subsidy.
She clarified that no segment of society, including persons with disabilities, has been excluded from the scheme, adding that misleading reports in this regard have already been addressed with factual clarification.