Maryam orders launch of talent hunt, youth internship programmes

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ordered launch of the first-ever Talent Hunt Program and Youth Internship Program to empower young individuals across Punjab.

“Young players in Punjab will be given ample opportunities to showcase their talent and move forward in life,” she said while instructing authorities to roll out a comprehensive and inclusive sports development initiative. The chief minister made it clear that women athletes would receive equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in the sporting arena.

In a bid to strengthen the institutional framework, the CM also instructed the departments concerned to ensure financial autonomy for the Sports Department, and take all necessary steps to avoid any delays in disbursement of salaries to its employees.

She also called for a well-structured plan to initiate the Youth Internship Programme, aiming to provide practical exposure and skill development opportunities to the young population of Punjab.

On the occasion of the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace, CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif highlighted the vital role of sports in promoting harmony, social inclusion, and youth empowerment. “This day serves to remind us of the positive role sports play in society — not only in physical development but also in fostering peace,” she said.

The CM said the government was committed to providing equal sporting opportunities to youth, women, elderly, differently-abled persons and marginalised communities.

“Sports events pave the way for peace and development. Peace and sports are inseparable — where there is peace, there is progress in sports,” she stated.

Highlighting government initiatives, she mentioned the launch of ‘Khelta Punjab’ programme and the ‘Pink Games’, calling them metaphors for peace, inclusion, and equal opportunity.

The CM announced that the government was actively working on the construction of 300 sports grounds and complexes across Punjab and was increasing the Sports Endowment Fund to ensure sustained support for sports promotion.

Separately, CM Maryam Nawaz commended the Wildlife Department, district administration, and police for conducting the largest-ever combing operation in South Punjab to protect wildlife and rare bird species.

Led by Director General Wildlife Department Mudassar Riaz Malik, the raids targeted Godri Bird Market and Pigeon Market in Multan, resulting in the rescue of hundreds of rare birds and animals, including parrots, chakors, peacocks, and pheasants. Eight truckloads of birds and wild animals were taken into custody.

The operation faced violent resistance, including torture and gunfire from the illegal wildlife mafia. Eight armed suspects were arrested, and over 40 shops were sealed. An attempted murder case has been registered against unidentified individuals who opened fire during the raid at Godri Market. Additional arrests are underway.

Furthermore, a separate FIR under anti-terrorism provisions has been lodged against those involved in the illegal bird trade.