Universal health programme approved
Punjab cabinet has approved a universal health coverage programme to offer health insurance to entire population of the province by December 2021, besides winding up of anti-terrorism courts (ATCs) in Sargodha and Rawalpindi.
Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar chaired the 40th meeting of the provincial cabinet held on Monday.
The cabinet also constituted a ministerial committee to ensure implementation of the universal health insurance programme in a timely manner.
Moreover, the cabinet also approved establishment of Thal University in Bhakkar to bring the underdeveloped region on par with developed cities.
Official sources said it also gave in-principle approval of amendments to the Evacuee Trust Properties and Displaced Persons Laws (Repeal) Act, 1975.
The committee for legislation was directed by the cabinet to submit a final report, after a detailed review, and advertise the deadline at the earliest as the amendments would help dispose of pending land claims.
The cabinet also decided in principle to establish the Lahore Central Business District Development Authority to promote business activities at Walton Airport and its surrounding areas by providing facilities to investors.
The establishment of the Sialkot Development Authority was also granted assent in the meeting along with in-principle approval to the Punjab Aab-e-Pak Authority (Appointment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 2020.
The meeting further decided to provide alternative land in Yazman and Fort Abbas as a substitute of 1,626 acres of land allotted for Army Welfare Scheme in Bhakkar district.
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It decided to end collection of motor vehicles taxes through post offices and draft management law and transfer of properties under section 19 of the Development Authority Act, 2014.
The cabinet allowed Infrastructure Development Authority Punjab to start its activities in K-P province to assist the government there.
Punjab government rules of business for South Punjab also stand approved after the meeting.
The federal government’s decision relating to the establishment of a permanent secretariat of the Council of Common Interests was endorsed along with the approval of amendments in Ravi Urban Development Authority Act, 2020. The authority was also allowed to use the remaining portion of Rs5 billion loan in other heads.
The meeting approved the use of Chinese yuan for the exchange of foreign currency for energy agreements besides giving in-principle approval to service rules for the promotion of police SPs and DSPs. The move is expected to benefit hundreds of police officers awaiting promotions for years.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 26th, 2021.