Punjab announces billions of grants under Khushhal Dehat Programme
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has given in-principle approval to provide Rs50 million for development projects in each village across the province. The programme will focus on better roads, paved streets and proper sewerage systems in rural areas.
Rs23.85 billion approved for first phase
Under the first phase, development work will begin in 475 villages across Punjab. The government has approved a total budget of Rs23.85 billion for these projects.
The main aim is to improve living conditions in villages by providing basic facilities. The projects will include construction of paved streets and organised sewerage systems to address common problems faced by rural residents.
Special committees to supervise village projects
The government has decided to form dedicated Khushhal Dehat Committees to manage and monitor development work in each village. These committees will be responsible for ensuring that projects are completed properly.
Each committee will be headed by the relevant Additional Deputy Commissioner (Social Services). It will include five government officials and four private members, along with the concerned Union Council chairman and sub-engineer.
First grants to be released by November
Maryam Nawaz has directed officials to release the first instalment of development funds to village committees by November. She has also asked authorities to prepare a development plan for another 2,000 villages under the second phase.
The chief minister said providing paved streets and proper sewerage systems in every village was her commitment. She stressed that rural communities should receive the same development opportunities as people living in cities.
No political discrimination in development projects
Maryam Nawaz said political differences should not affect the distribution of development funds. She maintained that every area of Punjab had an equal right to development projects and solutions to public problems.
The latest approval follows an earlier decision taken on October 20, when the Punjab government approved a pilot project to turn 120 villages into model villages. The government also announced plans to introduce the Khushhal Dehat Act 2026 to support the programme.
The Khushhal Dehat Programme aims to improve basic facilities in Punjab’s villages. The Rs5 crore allocation could help rural communities get better streets and sewerage systems.
The success of the programme will depend on timely funding and proper use of money. Fair distribution and regular monitoring will also be important to ensure that development reaches every village.
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