The 29th meeting of the Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has given the green light to a comprehensive relief package aimed at supporting families affected by floods throughout the province. Starting October 17, compensation cheques will be distributed, alongside several important decisions focused on economic, agricultural, and social reforms.
As part of the relief package, families who lost loved ones will receive Rs 1 million, while those facing permanent disabilities will get Rs 500,000. For those with minor injuries, the compensation is set at Rs 300,000. When it comes to property damage, a completely destroyed permanent house will qualify for Rs 1 million, partially damaged permanent structures will receive Rs 300,000, fully damaged mud houses will be compensated with Rs 500,000, and partially damaged ones will get Rs 150,000.
The cabinet also approved compensation for livestock and crops, offering up to Rs 500,000 for large animals and Rs 50,000 for small livestock, along with Rs 20,000 per acre for those who experienced 25% crop damage due to the floods.
In another significant move, agricultural income tax and Abiana (water tax) have been waived for 2,855 villages across Punjab. The cabinet made it clear that no construction will be permitted in river flood zones moving forward.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also announced a monthly salary increase of Rs 15,000 for Civil Defence volunteers, acknowledging their outstanding service during the floods.
Among other significant reforms:
- Rs 2 per unit cut in solar electricity tariff across Punjab.
- Rent-a-Car service tax reduced to 15%.
- MBBS fee for overseas Pakistanis fixed at $10,000, rejecting the $20,000 proposal.
- MDCAT test made mandatory for candidates from other provinces.
- Approval for 8,084 College Teaching Interns (CTIs) and School Teaching Interns hiring.
- Launch of interest-free electric taxi project and Maryam Nawaz Ration Card pilot program in Lahore.
- Creation of new judicial posts: 379 District & Session Judges and 872 Civil Judges.
- “Khelta Punjab” e-bike project approved for athletes.
The Chief Minister reiterated that no health or education agenda will be halted under her leadership, promising transparency and efficiency in all departments.
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