Landless farmers of Cholistan given lands

LAHORE:Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced allocating 12 and a half acres of land per person on a lease for five years to 27,000 farmers in Cholistan.

Acting on the chief minister's directives, the protracted process of allotting land, stagnant for 45 years, has culminated in a few months, with 344,000 acres now allocated to 27,000 farmers through a transparent balloting and the decades-long plight of landless farmers in Cholistan has been addressed.

The balloting, officiated by the chief minister at his office, signifies a historic step towards empowering the farmers of Cholistan.

Speaking at the balloting ceremony, the chief minister announced allocating 12 and a half acres of land per person on a lease for five years to 27,000 farmers.

This decision brings justice to the impoverished farmers spanning three districts of South Punjab – Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar, and Bahawalpur, who have awaited their rightful claims for 45 years.

The chief minister felicitated the farmers of Bahawalpur Division and Cholistan for securing land. He pledged to personally hand over allotment letters to the successful farmers during his upcoming visit to Cholistan.

The chief minister emphasised the transparency and rigorous scrutiny involved in the land allotment process, with Session Judges, government officials, and various stakeholders playing integral role.

Highlighting the prolonged delay since 1978 in the land allotment process for Cholistan residents, the chief minister envisioned this initiative providing employment opportunities to thousands of Cholistan families.

Assured of transforming the Cholistan landscape, Mohsin Naqvi anticipated increased cultivation, greener surroundings, and improved access to canal water. He revealed that the allotment rates are reasonable, enabling farmers to cultivate the land in the upcoming crop season.

During the briefing, it was disclosed that 41,841 applicants underwent rigorous screening, with 27,000 individuals in Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, and Bahawalpur securing 12 and a half acres of land each on a five-year lease. The computerised draw was conducted by Provincial Ministers Amir Mir and Azfar Ali Nasir, Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, Senior Member Board of Revenue Nabil Javed, and other dignitaries, marking a momentous occasion for the Cholistan region. Deputy Commissioner Bahawalpur, through video link, also actively participated in the draw ceremony.

CM inspects expansion of Bibi Pakdaman shrine

The chief minister has directed to widen the route leading to the shrine of Bibi Pakdaman in the provincial metropolis to enhance visitors' convenience. Additionally, he emphasised the need to enlarge the ablution area and directed the secretaries of the Auqaf and C&W departments to expedite the project's completion.

During the review of the shrine's expansion project, the CM mandated the installation of high-quality lighting inside the shrine. He examined the artwork, and the central dome, and directed to create a dedicated space for lighting candles and burning oil lamps. In concluding the inspection, the CM offered prayers for the country and the Muslims.

Takes notice of death of a citizen in Bahawalpur zoo

The chief minister sought a report from the secretary wildlife department and Commissioner Bahawalpur about the death of a citizen due to the attack of tigers in the Bahawalpur Zoo.

He directed to conduct a security audit of zoo to take steps to ensure the safety of visitors. The CM directed to investigate the incident for taking legal action against those responsible for the negligence.

CM felicitates Rizwana on her recovery

Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed his pleasure at the complete recovery of Rizwana, a survivor of torture. In a statement, he acknowledged the grace of Allah Almighty and the dedicated efforts of the medical professionals. He commended the efforts of the doctors and paramedics involved in her recovery.