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.