LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has reiterated her unwavering commitment to eliminating child labour and ensuring a safe, dignified and prosperous future for children across the province.
In a special message on the occasion of “World Day Against Child Labour,” the chief minister reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eradicate the practice of child labour and urged parents to provide children with access to education, healthcare and recreational opportunities.
She emphasized that respect for children’s rights is a hallmark of a civilized and dignified society, adding that Punjab is now the safest province for children. “Children are my red line,” she said, stressing that violence, abuse or exploitation of children in any form is completely unacceptable.
Maryam Nawaz appealed to parents to treat children with love and care rather than subjecting them to labour. She vowed strict legal action against those involved in child labour at brick kilns or any other workplace.
The chief minister said the theme of World Day Against Child Labour “Fair opportunities for children, no to child labour, and dignified employment for youth” serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect children and secure their future.
She noted that the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau and other social welfare institutions in Punjab are actively working to safeguard children’s rights and welfare.
“Every child is our future. We want to see books and laptops in their hands, not bricks, stones or iron tools,” she said, adding that initiatives such as the Honhaar Scholarship Programme and the distribution of laptops are encouraging children to pursue education.
The chief minister underscored the need for collective awareness and action to eliminate child labour, saying the challenge cannot be addressed through individual efforts alone.
Maryam Nawaz further stated that the Punjab government remains committed to fulfilling its responsibility to ensure children’s nutritional needs, education, upbringing and healthcare. She highlighted that the School Meal Programme is being implemented across the province to address malnutrition among schoolchildren.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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