Punjab budget reflects CM Maryam’s minority-friendly vision: Minister Arora

LAHORE, Jun 16 (APP): Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora on Tuesday hailed the allocation of billions of rupees in the provincial budget for the welfare of minority communities, restoration of religious sites and the launch of the Minority Card initiative.

In a media statement, he said the measures reflected Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s minority-friendly vision and commitment to interfaith harmony. He congratulated the chief minister, Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and the budget team on presenting a people-centric budget for minority communities. He said the allocation of Rs 5 billion for the construction, restoration and development of minority religious and historical sites was a historic step that would help preserve the province’s diverse religious heritage.

The minister said record funds had been earmarked for the development and protection of gurdwaras, temples, churches and graveyards across Punjab, which would strengthen the sense of security and inclusion among minority communities. He said the introduction of the Chief Minister Minority Card was a practical manifestation of the government’s inclusive policies, enabling direct financial assistance to deserving minority families. He added that the allocation of Rs 4 billion for the Minority Development Programme would significantly contribute to the socio-economic uplift of minority communities.

The minister said providing basic facilities and improving the quality of life of minority citizens remained among the government’s top priorities. He added that educational scholarships and merit-based financial assistance for minority students reflected the continuation of the government’s commitment to promoting education.

Referring to recent welfare initiatives, he said thousands of deserving Christian families had also benefited from financial assistance provided under the Lent Package. He said the budget demonstrated the government’s resolve to integrate minorities into the national mainstream and ensure equal opportunities for all citizens. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, he added, the Punjab government was setting new benchmarks in interfaith harmony, religious freedom and social protection.