Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched a major initiative to support journalists across the province by announcing the allocation of plots to 3,200 journalists. This decision was revealed after a meeting with Provincial Information Minister Azma Bukhari, where they discussed immediate steps to establish the Lahore Phase 2 Journalist Colony. Maryam Nawaz highlighted the strong bond between journalists and the government, comparing them to two wheels that help move society forward. She stressed that providing these plots is a rightful claim for journalists, not a gesture of charity. To ensure transparency, she confirmed that the plot allocation process will strictly follow merit and legal standards. Journalists from outside the Lahore Press Club will be eligible to apply, with an official advertisement expected to be issued in the coming days.
In a separate event, Maryam Nawaz expressed her support for minority communities by helping over 1,400 Hindu families prepare for their festive celebrations. She personally distributed checks worth Rs 15,150 to each family. At this gathering, she shared additional plans to improve resources and protections for minority groups, including introducing special identity cards and setting up virtual police stations to help address complaints. Development projects aimed at enhancing living conditions in minority neighborhoods are also in progress.
Furthermore, Maryam Nawaz announced a large agricultural support program with a budget of Rs 10-15 billion to assist farmers across Punjab. Machinery hubs will be established in every tehsil, giving farmers access to equipment at affordable rates. As part of her efforts to reduce farming costs, the government also plans to convert 7,000 tube wells, currently running on diesel and petrol, to solar power. This change will help lower electricity expenses for farmers, making agricultural production more cost-effective.
