Lawmakers debate wheat policy, AIDS surge in Taunsa

Women's development initiatives, disparities in South Punjab discussed

LAHORE:

The Punjab Assembly on Thursday witnessed a heated debate on key public issues, including the provincial wheat policy, women's development initiatives, and a reported surge in AIDS cases in Taunsa, with the speaker referring the health crisis to a committee for detailed investigation.

The session, chaired by Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, began with a delay of one hour and 42 minutes and was largely dominated by opposition criticism over wheat procurement policies, governance challenges and public health concerns.

Opposition lawmaker Rana Shahbaz strongly criticised the government's wheat policy, saying that although authorities had announced they would not procure wheat, the Food Department was allegedly harassing citizens through continued license checks and administrative pressure.

Responding to the concerns, Speaker Khan stated that wheat prices in the market were currently stable between Rs3,600 and Rs3,700 per maund, adding that any operational issues raised by members would be reviewed through proper channels.

The opposition also raised concerns over development disparities in South Punjab.

Lawmaker Nadeem Qureshi pointed out the lack of basic facilities in the region and questioned the effectiveness of government programmes aimed at women's skill development and empowerment.

Parliamentary Secretary Saadia Taimur defended the government's initiatives, stating that efforts were underway to improve departmental performance and expand employment opportunities for women, particularly through digital platforms and vocational training programmes.