The Punjab government has initiated the distribution of Himmat Cards to 29,768 eligible special children across the province, following the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. This comprehensive welfare initiative aims to promote independence, confidence, and social inclusion among special children.
Launch Ceremony in Okara
The distribution campaign was formally launched at the Maryam Nawaz Centre of Excellence in Okara. Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Special Education Sania Ashiq inaugurated the programme, accompanied by the secretary and director general of the Special Education Department, according to a statement released on Sunday.
Details of the Initiative
During the inaugural event, Sania Ashiq announced that 96 students at the Centre received Himmat Cards. She confirmed that the cards would be distributed among all 29,768 eligible special children throughout Punjab. The initiative reflects the chief minister’s vision of empowering children with special needs and ensuring their access to improved opportunities and facilities.
The Punjab government is providing various facilities to special children, including Himmat Cards, assistive devices, therapy services, and nutritious food. Sania Ashiq also announced that satellite campuses of autism schools would be established in every division of Punjab to provide assessment and therapy services closer to the homes of special children and their families.
Nutritional Support
The special assistant stated that the provincial government is providing fortified biscuits and protein-enriched milk daily to 45,000 special children across Punjab. “Our endeavour is to provide the best possible facilities to these children. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and her team share the same concern and compassion for these children as their parents do,” she added.
Empowerment and Future Plans
Sania Ashiq described the Himmat Card as a landmark welfare initiative that would strengthen the confidence, dignity, and economic well-being of special children, helping them move towards a more independent life. She noted that the facilities available at the Maryam Nawaz Centre of Excellence are comparable to those of leading institutions, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive education and rehabilitation.
She added that the Himmat Card has emerged as a symbol of empowerment and self-reliance for special children and is proving to be an important milestone in ensuring their protection, confidence, and a brighter future. She also appreciated the personal attention of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif towards welfare initiatives for special children, saying her supervision has played a vital role in their successful implementation across Punjab.
