The Punjab cabinet has given the green light to the Chief Minister Punjab Climate Leadership Development Internship Programme. This new initiative is designed to offer three-month internships to 2000 students. Each intern will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 25,000. Upon completing the program, participants will receive certificates, which will assist them in securing admissions to prestigious foreign universities. This program aims to nurture future leaders in climate change and environmental sustainability.
E-Bike Scheme Expansion
In addition to the internship program, the cabinet has decided to expand the e-bike scheme. The Punjab government will now cover all charges except for insurance costs. This includes documentation, registration, and number plates. The scheme will be extended to include an additional 10,000 electric bikes. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote environmentally friendly transportation options across the province, making it easier and more affordable for residents to switch to electric vehicles.
Key Points:
- Punjab cabinet approved a new Climate Leadership Development Internship Programme.
- 2000 students will get three-month internships with a stipend of Rs 25,000 per month.
- Successful interns will receive certificates to help them with university admissions.
District Sustainable Development Goals Programme
The cabinet has also approved the Chief Minister District Sustainable Development Goals Programme. This ambitious project will see the completion of around 3000 development projects across various districts. These projects include roads, parks, drainage systems, clean water supply, street lights, and tube wells. The total cost of these projects is estimated at Rs 80 billion, with a fixed completion period of one year. No project under this program will be allowed to exceed its designated timeframe, ensuring timely development and improved infrastructure for the people of Punjab.
Focus on Price Control and Law & Order
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized the importance of price control and law and order during the cabinet meeting. She stated that any failure to control prices in a district would be seen as a failure of the Deputy Commissioner in charge. To reduce transportation costs and ensure local availability, the CM suggested that vegetables should be grown according to the demand of each city. This approach is intended to help stabilize prices and make essential goods more affordable for the general public.
Support for Artists and Fresh Graduates
The CM also directed relevant departments to draft guidelines for establishing a housing scheme for artists. She highlighted the government’s responsibility to take care of everyone, comparing it to a mother’s role in a family. Furthermore, she instructed all departments to start paid internship programs to better engage fresh graduates. This move aims to provide new graduates with valuable work experience, helping them transition smoothly into the job market and contribute to the economy.
Development of Road Corridors
In a special meeting, the CM approved the construction of three new road corridors in Punjab. These roads will connect major cities, facilitating easier travel and contributing to socio-economic development. The roads from Sahiwal to Chicha Watni, Rajana to Layyah, and Shorkot to Jhang Chiraghwali will be dual-carriage roads. Additionally, the single road from Depalpur to Vehari will be converted into a dual-carriage road. The total cost for these projects is estimated at Rs 210 billion, and they are expected to be completed by December 2025 in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Conclusion
The recent decisions by the Punjab cabinet reflect a strong commitment to sustainable development and support for various segments of society. The approval of the Climate Leadership Development Internship Programme, expansion of the e-bike scheme, and significant infrastructure projects are all steps towards a more prosperous and environmentally conscious Punjab. These initiatives, alongside the focus on price control, support for artists, and the engagement of fresh graduates, demonstrate a holistic approach to governance under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s leadership.