PHOTO: FILE
LAHORE:
A new social protection policy will be introduced in Punjab aimed at improving the quality of life for the disenfranchised segments of society, said Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar. He expressed these views while chairing a board meeting for the Punjab Social Protection Authority (PSPA) on Thursday.
During the meeting, the chief minister gave his approval for launching different welfare projects. He stated that all possible efforts will be made for poverty alleviation.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) government is giving importance to the welfare of the needy, he stated. During the meeting, it was discussed that one-window welfare counters will be set up at e-khidmat centres to facilitate women, children and the elderly. They will be provided different PSPA services through these counters.
The meeting also deliberated on starting the bahimmat buzurg programme for people older than 65. The meeting also discussed giving monthly pensions to such individuals. The chief minister directed that the programme aimed for the welfare of senior citizens should be formulated soon.
The meeting also discussed the proposal for launching the hum qadam project for differently-abled citizens. It was also revealed that a special project for the welfare of the transgender community will be initiated on the directions of the Supreme Court. Further, free-of-charge education and healthcare, screening, legal and psychological assistance and shelter will also be provided to transgender children.
During the meeting, it was also revealed that PSPA has submitted an application to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) for banning content ridiculing the transgender community. Punjab Health Minister Yasmeen Rashid and other officials were also present during the meeting.
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