Punjab govt decides to start paid internships for students

Lahore: Punjab government decided to launch internship program for the students with various public sector departments, the sources close to the development said on Tuesday.

The sources said that the Punjab government would pay Rs25,000 as per month stipend to the internees during their internship program.

“The internship program will be started by all provincial departments,” said the sources

The Punjab CM also approved several key initiatives aimed at boosting development and providing opportunities for young people in Punjab. Among these, the Climate Leadership Development Internship Program has been given the green light, with directives for all government departments to initiate paid internship programs.

A comprehensive plan has been presented, detailing 3,000 projects across districts with a total investment of 80 billion rupees. These projects will encompass roads, parks, drainage systems, clean water facilities, street lights and tube wells.

The timeline for completion is set at one year, with strict instructions to adhere to this schedule. The Urban Unit has been tasked with monitoring these projects through the Geographical Information System (GIS).

In a significant move, the government will cover all charges related to the e-bike scheme, excluding insurance. This initiative is set to include an additional 10,000 electric bikes, with the government paying for documents, registration, and number plates.

The CM also announced an increase in the quarterly stipend for the Himmat Card to 10,500 rupees. Special individuals eligible for the Himmat Card will be verified at their doorsteps, ensuring that those unable to work receive their due support.

Additionally, the establishment of the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority has been approved. This authority will operate at the provincial, district, and tehsil levels, aiming to streamline enforcement and regulatory activities across the region.

Amendments to Section 144 under the Criminal Procedure Code 1898 have also been sanctioned. These amendments allow the Deputy Commissioner to impose Section 144 for 30 days, the Home Secretary for 90 days, and the Cabinet for longer durations.

In the realm of education, the Chief Minister Internship Program will offer three-month internships to 2,000 students, each receiving a monthly stipend of 25,000 rupees. Furthermore, the e-transfer policy for higher and school education has been approved.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized the importance of government responsibility, stating, "The government is like a mother; it must take care of everyone." She also highlighted the role of artists, saying, "An artist is not just for their family but for the entire nation."

Price control and law and order remain top priorities for the Chief Minister. She declared that any failure to control prices would be seen as a failure of the Deputy Commissioner. To reduce transportation costs, she recommended that vegetables be grown according to the demand of each city.

Other approvals include a residence request by renowned singer Tasawar Khanum, the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor for the University of Wah/Wah Cantt, and the Chairperson of the Punjab Revenue Authority.