Punjab govt announces to launch 'Minority Card'

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the launch of Pakistan's first-ever Minority Card, designed to provide financial assistance to underprivileged members of the minority communities in the province.

The card, set to be introduced at the beginning of 2025, will ensure financial support is delivered every three months to those in need, helping sustain the livelihood of minority groups.

Addressing a Christmas ceremony at Lahore’s largest church, the House of Prayer, Maryam Nawaz emphasized her commitment to supporting the minority communities.

"The Minority Card will guarantee that you do not have to depend on others for support," she assured the gathering.

During her speech, Maryam Nawaz expressed a deep sense of unity, saying, “The state is like a mother, and as your Chief Minister, I am like a mother to you.

A mother never discriminates between her children.” She further highlighted that there is no division in her heart or mind based on religion, adding, "Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and people of all other religions are the pride of my life."

Maryam Nawaz reiterated that the welfare and development of Punjab’s citizens, regardless of their religion, were her priority. "For me, both minorities and majorities are equal. Every project by the Punjab government includes contributions from all communities," she stated.

The Chief Minister emphasized that her administration was working tirelessly for the betterment of all citizens and that the protection of the minority community was a shared responsibility. "Anyone who harms our minority brothers and sisters will harm me," she said. "The protection of the minority community is our collective responsibility."

Maryam Nawaz also revealed that she was placing special focus on building a more inclusive society for the Christian community, with a significant 200% increase in the budget allocated for their development.

"If it were up to me, I would increase the budget by 5000% because increasing the budget for the Christian community is not a favor, it is their right," she stated.