Cabinet also approves wide-ranging provincial projects, education reforms, and cooperation with Egypt.
Cabinet Endorses TLP Ban
The Punjab cabinet on Wednesday officially ratified the federal government’s decision to ban the proscribed Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in Lahore.
The ratification came weeks after the federal government outlawed the group on Punjab’s recommendation, following violent clashes in Muridke that left eight people dead, including a police officer, and over 1,600 injured.
Administrative Control Shifted
As part of the implementation, the Punjab government transferred administrative control of mosques and seminaries formerly run by the TLP to a group of moderate clerics.
The cabinet also approved the extension of the Counter-Terrorism Department’s (CTD) jurisdiction to newly included regions beyond Tehsil Koh-e-Sulaiman and District Rajanpur to bolster anti-extremism operations.
A grant-in-aid was sanctioned to strengthen the capacity of both federal and provincial law enforcement agencies, reflecting Punjab’s focus on internal security and counterterrorism readiness.
Education, Agriculture, and Infrastructure Initiatives
The meeting approved several development and reform initiatives, including the recruitment of teachers under the School Teachers Intern Programme for public schools.
Additionally, the cabinet endorsed the Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property Ordinance 2025, ensuring stronger property rights for citizens.
Under the High-Tech Farm Mechanization Finance Programme, the government announced a 60% subsidy on super seeders and modern agricultural equipment to promote sustainable farming.
Major Infrastructure and Transport Decisions
Punjab’s cabinet also greenlit an MoU for the Lahore-Rawalpindi High-Speed Rail Project, marking a major step toward intercity connectivity.
The establishment of Air Punjab (Private) Limited was approved to enhance regional air connectivity. The cabinet further sanctioned the introduction of QR codes for retailers under the Prime Minister’s Cashless Economy Strategy.
In Gujranwala, the foundation stone for the Mass Transit Authority was approved, with an exemption from the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) to fast-track progress.
Cultural and Heritage Projects
The meeting allocated funds for a new museum and memorial at the National Bank Park, and approved a master plan for the restoration and upgrading of the Lahore Museum.
An MoU was also signed for agricultural cooperation with Egypt, reflecting Punjab’s efforts to expand international partnerships.
Healthcare and Administrative Reforms
New posts for interventional cardiologists, medical officers, technologists, and nurses were approved for cardiac catheterization labs at district hospitals.
Recruitments were also cleared for the Punjab Services Tribunal and Punjab Financial Advisory Services (PFAS). The Punjab Sahulat Bazar Authority (PSBA) was granted permission to fill new posts to enhance public service operations.
The cabinet also approved new CEOs for the Punjab Land Development Company and the Punjab Mineral Company, alongside the nomination of a non-official chairman for the Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA).