LAHORE: Pakistan’s Punjab has unveiled a Rs23 billion integrated development and security plan for the riverine (Katcha) belt in Punjab province. The initiative includes the “Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar” scheme, distributing 14,500 acres of state land to local residents to promote farming and livelihoods.
CM Punjab launches wide-ranging programme
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif launched the wide-ranging programme, which focuses on strengthening both infrastructure and public services across the Katcha region. Plans include building and upgrading schools, healthcare facilities, roads, and bridges, along with introducing transport services and mobile healthcare units.
کچہ ایریا میں 23 ارب روپے کے ڈویلپمنٹ پراجیکٹس!
وزیر اعلیٰ مریم نواز کا کچہ ایریا میں “اپنا کھیت، اپنا روز گار” شروع کرنے کا اعلان۔
ٹرانسپورٹ کلینک آن وہیلز بھیجنے کا حکم ، موبائل وٹرنری ہسپتال، لیب مہیا کی جائیگی۔ pic.twitter.com/oOtQRcxfqp
— PMLN (@pmln_org) April 30, 2026
Funding breakdown
─────────────────────────────────────
Law enforcement Rs7.1 billion
Social sector Rs13.9 billion
Other development Rs1.7 billion
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TOTAL Rs23 billion
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“وزیراعلیٰ مریم نواز شریف کا کچہ ایریا میں 23ارب روپے کے ڈویلپمنٹ پراجیکٹس کا اعلان”
🔹وزیراعلیٰ پنجاب مریم نواز شریف کا کچہ ایریا میں ”اپنا کھیت، اپنا روزگار“ شروع کرنے کا اعلان
🔹وزیراعلیٰ مریم نواز شریف کا14 ہزار 500ایکڑ سرکاری اراضی کچہ کے لوگوں کو دینے کا حکم
🔹پہلی مرتبہ… pic.twitter.com/ade2YIaVuZ
— PMLN (@pmln_org) April 30, 2026
Livestock support
To support livestock owners, mobile veterinary hospitals and diagnostic labs will also be deployed across the region.
Security upgrades
On the security front, authorities will roll out solar-powered drones capable of extended surveillance operations, alongside modern armoured vehicles and police units fitted with advanced monitoring systems. Police stations and checkpoints will be integrated with the Safe City network to enhance coordination and response.
Funding allocation
Funding allocation details show Rs7.1 billion earmarked for law enforcement, Rs13.9 billion for social sector improvements, and Rs1.7 billion for additional development efforts.
Education initiatives
In education, thousands of female students will receive meal support, while scholarships and laptops will be distributed to selected students. The plan also covers the construction and renovation of dozens of schools, along with the establishment of new institutions, including girls’ colleges.
Infrastructure & model villages
Infrastructure projects include extensive road development, while model village schemes will introduce improved sewerage, drainage, and sports facilities. A dedicated skills training programme worth Rs125 million is also part of the package.
Identity registration services
Residents will gain easier access to identity registration services through mobile National Database and Registration Authority units, enabling issuance of CNICs and B-forms locally.
Security restrictions & personnel incentives
Officials further confirmed special incentives for personnel serving in these challenging areas, along with measures to track and recover illegal weapons through digital monitoring systems. Additionally, growing tall crops along major routes has been restricted to improve visibility and enhance security conditions.
