Punjab Boosts Penalties for Illegal Arms and Kite Flying; CM Maryam Nawaz Leads Major Initiatives
In the 15th meeting of the Punjab provincial cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, several significant decisions were made, including the approval of major projects and an increase in penalties for illegal activities.
Increased Penalties:
– Illegal Arms Possession: Amendments to the Punjab Arms Ordinance 1965 have made offenses related to illegal arms and manufacturing non-bailable. Convictions now carry penalties ranging from 3 to 5 years in prison, with fines up to 7 lakh rupees.
– Kite Flying: Under the Kite Flying Ordinance 2001, penalties have been heightened. Individuals involved in kite flying and related activities now face imprisonment of 2 to 5 years, alongside substantial fines.
Key Initiatives Approved:
– Apna Chhat, Apna Ghar: This new housing initiative allows citizens to obtain home loans with just a plot ownership document and an ID card. Loans of up to Rs1.5 million will require monthly installments of Rs14,000 over 9 years. The program is designed as a revolving fund, ensuring no additional charges for the public. The cabinet also approved the initial design for the project.
– Green Tractor Program: The cabinet approved the distribution of 9,500 tractors, each with a subsidy of one million rupees for landowners with up to 50 acres. The first draw is scheduled between September 20 and October 20, with the goal of distributing 30,000 tractors to Punjab farmers.
– Children’s Heart Surgery Program: The Chief Minister directed the clearance of 12,000 pending heart surgeries for children and instructed the health minister to oversee the program. Additionally, she proposed inviting international surgeons to provide assistance. The cabinet commended the Chief Minister for launching this critical initiative.
The cabinet also approved the establishment of Punjab’s first provincial life insurance company, marking another significant step in the province’s development.
