Latest news with #DheeRani
Express Tribune
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Mass wedding marks launch of Dhee Rani-II
Under the Punjab government's 'Dhee Rani' programme, newlywed couples sit together under a grand marquee during a mass wedding ceremony. PHOTO: EXPRESS The second phase of the Punjab government's "Dhee Rani" mass wedding initiative kicked off in the Rawalpindi Division with a vibrant ceremony that celebrated the union of 97 couples. Each bride was presented with a dowry package and a gift of Rs100,000. The event also included the wedding of a visually impaired bride. Attendees were treated to a lavish meal, and traditional Punjabi music and dance added a cultural flair to the celebration. The ceremony was attended by two provincial ministers, members of the assembly, and local administrative officials who acted as hosts. Participants who tied the knot expressed gratitude to the government, noting that financial constraints had delayed their weddingsuntil now. Speaking at the event, Punjab's Minister for Social Welfare, Sohail Shaukat Butt, hailed the "Dhee Rani" programme as a historic initiative, stating, "No program of this scale has ever been launched in the country's history." He added that the initiative addresses deep-rooted class disparities and is benefiting Muslims, Christians, and persons with disabilities alike. "Though the state had resources before, no such initiative was ever taken. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has opened the doors of the state to fulfill the dreams of daughters and their parents," said Butt, calling the program a cornerstone for building a compassionate society. Punjab's Minister for Transport, Bilal Akbar, echoed the sentiment, saying, "This isn't just about weddings. It's about fulfilling the dreams of mothers, daughters, and sisters." He emphasised that the government's commitment to public welfare surpasses that of any previous administration. Akbar highlighted several of the provincial government's achievements within just one year, including the construction of 8,000 kilometres of roads, upgrades to 1,500 basic health units, and improvements in THQ hospitals. He noted that free medicines, discontinued in recent years, have been reinstated. He also pointed to educational initiatives, saying that 30,000 students had received scholarships and 100,000 laptops were distributed to bright students, signalling what he described as an IT revolution. "When Shehbaz Sharif distributed laptops, critics mocked the move. But now, those very laptops are helping young people educate themselves and earn a living," he added. Addressing the recent concerns over wheat distribution, Akbar mentioned a Rs15 billion farmer support package announced just four days prior and the distribution of 9,000 green tractors on merit. Other programmes highlighted during the event included the introduction of minority cards, "Himmat" cards, and disability support cardsinitiatives designed to serve citizens directly in their communities. Member of the National Assembly, Tahira Aurangzeb, also addressed the audience, commending the "Dhee Rani" initiative as a step toward making state resources more accessible to the people.
Express Tribune
18-04-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
Punjab launches country's largest assistive devices program
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Thursday launched Pakistan's largest assistive devices initiative for persons with disabilities, aiming to empower thousands across the province through improved mobility and access to essential support equipment. More than 300 persons with disabilities attended the launch ceremony in Lahore, where emotional scenes highlighted the impact of the program. In one poignant moment, the chief minister personally escorted a young man, Aqeel, who had lost his arm in an accident, to the stage. Another moving instance saw a child named Sohail use a neuro-controlled prosthetic arm to move his hand for the first time, prompting applause as he exchanged a high-five with the chief minister. Speaking at the event, Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed her government's commitment to inclusivity. 'Persons with disabilities are the responsibility of the state, and it is our collective duty to ensure they have access to all necessary resources,' she said. 'A physical limitation does not equate to a lack of ability.' She praised Punjab's Social Welfare Minister Sohail Shoukat Butt and his team, describing their work as vital to achieving her government's social welfare goals. 'You hold one of the most important ministries, one with the power to turn this vision into reality,' she said, applauding initiatives like the Himmat Card and Dhee Rani programs. The chief minister also outlined her administration's accessibility efforts, noting that all public facilities have been directed to install wheelchair ramps. She urged persons with disabilities to register on the government's social welfare portal for home delivery of mobility aids and other assistive devices. 'I want to reach every person waiting behind closed doors for the state to appear,' she said. 'Whether it is the Himmat Card, Minority Card, Dastak Program, or Nigehbaan Ramzan Package, our goal is to ensure everyone receives their due rights.' Concluding her address, Maryam Nawaz said, 'I'm happy power is now in the hands of those who genuinely care. If leaders have sincere intentions, God provides the means to serve the people.' Earlier, Minister Sohail Shoukat Butt shared details of the Rs1 billion program, which will distribute assistive devices, including manual, electric, and motorized wheelchairs; tricycles; tri-motorcycles; walking aids; mobile toilet chairs; pediatric wheelchairs; and joystick-controlled chairs, free of charge across Punjab. Hearing aids and artificial limbs will also be provided as per individual needs.
Express Tribune
12-02-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
'Dhee Rani' initiative unites 36 couples
RAWALPINDI: Under the Punjab government's "Dhee Rani" programme, a large collective marriage ceremony was held in Rawalpindi for 36 deserving Muslim and non-Muslim couples from impoverished backgrounds. The event took place at the city's largest marquee. The brides were provided with free jewellery, basic essential dowries, and blessings. Artists performed traditional Punjabi dances and wedding songs. The dowries were set according to the Islamic Shari'ah, with the importance of the Mahr (dower) clearly emphasised. All grooms were sternly advised that these are Punjab's daughters, and they must ensure their happiness and respect. Even if their salaries are modest, they must provide their wives with dignity and respect. These poor daughters will turn their homes into heaven, but if any groom behaves unjustly, the Punjab government will take action, it was further warned. Each couple was allowed to have 10 family members attend the ceremony. The families of both the grooms and brides were transported by government vehicles with full protocol to the venue. The government also provided free wedding outfits for the couples. Speaking on the occasion as a special guest, Punjab Minister for Transport Bilal Akbar urged the grooms to keep their wives happy. "CM Maryam Nawaz is working for the welfare of the people, mentioning programmes such as the Ehsaas Card and Health Card as monumental achievements." He emphasised that the primary focus of both the Pakistan and Punjab governments is the welfare and development of the people. Akbar noted that after witnessing Maryam Nawaz's work, even ministers feel embarrassed about their own contributions. Provincial Minister for Social Welfare, Sohail Shaukat called the collective wedding initiative a historic step, hailing the "Dhee Rani" programme as a significant and enduring initiative that has brought much-needed assistance to the poor and deserving families.
Express Tribune
09-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Rawalpindi to host mass wedding on Feb 12
RAWALPINDI: Under the Dhee Rani programme of the Punjab government, a mass wedding ceremony for 10 couples will take place in Rawalpindi on February 12. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will be the chief guest. A musical night has been planned in collaboration with the Arts Council of Rawalpindi on the occasion. The event will be held at Topi Rakh Marquee. The meeting focused on finalising transport and security arrangements for 10 couples from the Rawalpindi Region: one couple each from Kahuta, Saddar, and Gujjar Khan, six from Rawalpindi Cantt, and one from Sargodha. Each couple will be allowed to bring 20 family members, making a total of 36 couples participating. Strict security measures will be implemented, with the presence of an SP and his team.
