The announcement was made during a press briefing at the Punjab Social Security Head Office in Lahore, where Provincial Labour Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar outlined the initiative’s scope and goals.
“This is a historic moment. The promise made to the labourers of Punjab is now being fulfilled,” said Minister Khokhar. He praised Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s commitment to the working class and acknowledged the efforts of Secretary Labour Naeem Ghaus and Commissioner Social Security Muhammad Ali in turning this vision into reality.
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The scheme will initially benefit 1.2 million needy families, who will receive a monthly ration subsidy of at least Rs3,000. Distribution of the ration cards has already begun in Lahore, Multan, Sahiwal, Kasur, and other districts. According to the minister, the program will be expanded to all districts across the province within the next five to six months.
A daily monitoring mechanism is in place to track registration and distribution progress, ensuring transparency and accountability.
In addition to the ration card program, Minister Khokhar announced a significant upgrade to healthcare facilities. The Labour Department has approved a Rs5.5 billion investment to replace medical equipment in all Social Security Hospitals. Evening OPD services have also been launched to extend care to more workers.
“Our hospitals will soon offer services better than many private facilities,” the minister asserted, adding, “We are not just distributing cards — we are realizing a dream of social protection and dignity for Punjab’s labourers.”
Minister Khokhar extended special thanks to CM Maryam Nawaz for prioritizing the needs of the underprivileged and ensuring the scheme’s successful launch.
