LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that rural women are a living embodiment of hard work, compassion, a sense of responsibility and sacrifice. Their efforts make Punjab’s fields flourish, keep households thriving and strengthen the economy, she said.
She said rural women are not merely hardworking individuals but active contributors to Punjab’s development. “The protection of every woman, including rural women, is my red line,” she added.
In her message on the International Day of Rural Women, the chief minister said the purpose of observing the day was to recognise the hard work and contributions of women in rural areas. She paid tribute to their dignity, sacrifices and tireless efforts.
“I want rural women to become decision-makers and economic powerhouses, rather than remaining just farmers. Building a strong, self-reliant and prosperous Punjab is impossible without their role,” she said.
The chief minister said the Punjab government had launched new opportunities, accessible facilities and skills development programmes for rural women. She added that rural women were benefiting from the Kisan Card, Livestock Card and Himmat Card schemes.
The CM Maryam Nawaz said basic health centres across Punjab were being upgraded to improve healthcare facilities for rural women. Interest-free loans for businesses, laptops and educational scholarships were bringing meaningful change to the lives of rural girls.
She said a skills development programme was being launched to ensure that rural women could participate in the development process. Livestock was also being provided to support self-employment opportunities for rural women.
The chief minister added that a Virtual Police Station had been established to ensure the protection of the rights of women belonging to all segments of society.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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