Maryam’s pledge to Sikh pilgrims: Modern hotels to be built at Sikh holy sites

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced plans to build modern hotels for Sikh pilgrims at their holy sites.

Addressing a ceremony at Darshan Devery at Kartarpur, she said she was obligated to provide facilitation, service and protection to Sikh pilgrims at all costs. “The Punjab government has planned to build modern hotels and develop Sikh holy sites and places. Excellent transport and security services will be provided.”

She also officially inaugurated ‘Besakhi’ by harvesting wheat with a golden sickle. She expressed happiness at the honour of harvesting in Baba Guru Nanak’s field. Sikh pilgrims warmly welcomed the chief minister at Pak Darshan. The chief minister also visited Sarovar (Holy Pond), Samadhi (Prayer Hall), Guru Ghar and had darshan of Sangat. She was briefed on the Facilitation Center.

Maryam greeted the Sikh delegation and inspected the holy well. She also visited the Sikh Art Gallery. Punjab chief minister, while chairing a special meeting on the Social Welfare and Baitul Mal Department, announced the issuance of “Himmat Card” and “Nigehban Card” for special persons. She also announced the launch of a loan scheme for persons with disabilities.

Recommendations for the formation of a Women Protection Authority Task Force were considered in the meeting. She approved the establishment of VAWC centres in each division.

A proposal to make Skills Development Centers in Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad operational, besides establishing them in other districts and an audit proposal for NGOs working for special persons were reviewed. She gave in-principle approval for digitisation of Social Welfare and Baitul Maal Department.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif also met with the Ambassador of Russia, Albert Khorev, discussing matters about agriculture, technology, trade and mutual interests. The overall situation in the region also came under discussion.

The chief minister said: “We want to enhance bilateral trade to further strengthen Pakistan-Russia relations. We want to benefit from the agricultural expertise of Russia and keen to acquire seeds from Russia to yield maximum production.” The Russian ambassador said: “We want to elevate our relations with Pakistan to new heights.” He maintained that Pakistan is an old friend and an important country in the region.