In a bold move to promote education and digital inclusion, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has unveiled a free laptop scheme for students across the province. The initiative is designed to ensure that K-P students receive the same level of technological support as their counterparts in Punjab.
During a recent address, CM Gandapur declared, “If Punjab is providing laptops to a specific percentage of students, we will match that percentage in K-P.” He also called on the Punjab government to reciprocate by introducing free health insurance cards similar to K-P’s Sehat Card Plus program.
Key Highlights of the Announcement
| Initiative | Details |
| Free Laptop Scheme | K-P to provide laptops matching Punjab’s distribution percentage |
| Health Insurance Challenge | Punjab urged to adopt free health insurance like K-P’s Sehat Card Plus |
| Revenue Growth | K-P reports 55% revenue growth, surpassing Punjab’s 12% |
| Budget Surplus | K-P achieves Rs176 billion surplus, meeting IMF targets |
| Support for Brides | Rs200,000 financial aid for 4,000 underprivileged brides |
K-P’s Healthcare Achievements
CM Gandapur highlighted K-P’s groundbreaking healthcare initiatives, stating, “We have ensured that every citizen in K-P has access to free healthcare through the Sehat Card Plus. Now, we are also offering life insurance to our people.” He challenged Punjab to implement similar programs, emphasizing the importance of equitable healthcare access nationwide.
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Fiscal Management and Revenue Growth
Gandapur also addressed K-P’s fiscal achievements, revealing that the province had achieved a remarkable 55% increase in revenue despite economic challenges. In contrast, Punjab’s revenue growth stood at just 12%.
He further noted that K-P was the only province to meet the International Monetary Fund (IMF) targets, boasting a budget surplus of Rs176 billion. Meanwhile, Punjab, which was tasked with achieving a surplus of Rs300 billion, reported a deficit of Rs146 billion.
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Support for Underprivileged Brides
In addition to the laptop scheme, CM Gandapur announced a welfare initiative to support underprivileged brides. The provincial government will provide Rs200,000 each to 4,000 deserving girls to help cover wedding expenses. This program aims to ease financial pressures on low-income families and promote social equity.
Challenging Punjab’s Governance
CM Gandapur did not shy away from challenging Punjab’s governance, stating, “I am ready for a debate. Punjab’s performance doesn’t even come close to 1% of what we’ve achieved in K-P.” He underscored K-P’s accomplishments in healthcare, fiscal management, and social welfare, urging Punjab to adopt similar measures for the benefit of its residents.
Conclusion
The introduction of the free laptop scheme and other welfare initiatives by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa underscores the provincial government’s commitment to education, healthcare, and social development. By challenging Punjab to match its efforts, CM Gandapur has initiated a conversation about inter-provincial collaboration and equitable resource distribution.
These initiatives are poised to make a significant impact on the lives of students, families, and underprivileged individuals in K-P, setting a high standard for other provinces to emulate.
FAQs
1. What is the K-P free laptop scheme?
It is a program to provide free laptops to students in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, matching the percentage of recipients in Punjab.
2. What is the Sehat Card Plus?
It is a comprehensive health insurance program in K-P that offers free healthcare services to all residents.
3. How much financial aid is provided to underprivileged brides?
Each bride receives Rs200,000 to assist with wedding expenses.
4. How does K-P’s revenue growth compare to Punjab’s?
K-P has achieved a 55% revenue growth, while Punjab’s growth is 12%.
5. Has K-P met IMF fiscal targets?
Yes, K-P is the only province to meet IMF targets, with a budget surplus of Rs176 billion