Mine workers death grant increased to Rs1.5 million

LAHORE:The Punjab government Wednesday decided to increase the death grant of mine workers from Rs500,000 to Rs1.5 million while it will be provided by the employer. The decision was made in a meeting presided over by the provincial minister for Industries and Commerce Aslam Iqbal here in the committee room of Punjab Board of Investment and Trade. The meeting reviewed the performance of Mines and Minerals Department, implementation of schemes and future course of action.

The meeting also decided increasing the monthly financial assistance for disable mine workers up to Rs20,000. Aslam Iqbal directed to present a plan to increase the death grant and financial assistance to disabled miners in the next meeting and said that expeditious steps should also be taken with regard to insurance of mine workers. Every necessary step should be taken to provide better facilities to the mineworkers. He said that the economy of the province could be strengthened by utilising the hidden treasures in the land. Therefore, complete mapping of mineral treasures in Punjab should be done so that they can be fully utilised. He said that digitisation would bring transparency in department affairs. Therefore, modern technology should be promoted. Briefing about the department digitisation and implementation of old and new schemes, the secretary mines and minerals said that along with promoting the use of modern technology in the Department of Minerals, one window operation would also be established.

diagnostic centre: Equipped with latest diagnostic facilities, Advance Medical Services Centre has been established in Johar Town. Minister for Local Government and Community Development Mian Mehmoodur Rashid inaugurated the state of the art diagnostic centre BEKS. On this occasion, senior consultant BEKS Prof Dr Zarfishan Tahir, chief pathologist Dr Obaidullah Qazi, CEO BEKS, Faisal Qasim and other office-bearers of the centre were present.

Dr Zarfishan Tahir said that the centre is providing laboratory tests, radiology diagnostic facilities and clinical consultancy onsite as well as home services for diagnostic tests and online (telemedicine ) medical consultancy for such patients who can't go to any health facility due to any reason.

Minister Mian Mehmoodur Rashid appreciated the establishment of a modern health centre, especially provision of health facilities at the doorsteps of citizens. CEO BEKS Faisal Qasim said that as compared to the market trends, all the facilities would be provided to the patients on affordable charges to accommodate lower middle-class patients.