Govt taking steps to ensure bright future for vulnerable children: Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on Wednesday the Punjab government was taking practical steps to ensure a safe and bright future for vulnerable children

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 25th Mar, 2026) Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on Wednesday the Punjab government was taking practical steps to ensure a safe and bright future for vulnerable children.

She attended a collective wedding ceremony for five individuals raised at the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau (CPWB) as the chief guest here. CPWB Chairperson Sara Ahmad, provincial ministers, senior officials and philanthropists were also present.

Addressing the event, Marriyum Aurangzeb termed the CPWB a source of hope where children were provided protection, education, training and skills to become self-reliant. She added that the number of child protection centres had increased from seven to 17 across Punjab, currently supporting around 1,500 children, saying that existing centres have also been upgraded to improve facilities.

The minister said the bureau was playing an effective role in the rescue and rehabilitation of children, preparing them for independent life and arranging dignified marriages once they were ready.

Referring to the “Dhee Rani Programme,” she said it was a unique initiative aimed at supporting underprivileged segments, now active down to the union council level and helping address public issues.

Marriyum Aurangzeb also underscored the government’s commitment to eliminating child labour, saying that rescued children were not only protected but also equipped with vocational skills to secure respectable livelihoods.

She appreciated the role of philanthropists for their continued support, noting that such contributions help bring joy and dignity to the lives of vulnerable children.

All arrangements for the ceremony, including dowry, clothing and meals, were managed with respect, and the couples were sent off with dignity. The initiative of collective marriages is held regularly, benefiting many children each year.

The minister said that the Punjab government’s vision for social protection was being translated into practical action, with strong collaboration between the state, society and philanthropists. She extended her best wishes to the newlywed couples and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering vulnerable communities.