Lahore: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in a message marking International Children’s Day, emphasized the importance of children as a divine gift and the unparalleled beauty of their smiles.

According to Chief Minister of Punjab, Sharif outlined the government’s commitment to ensuring the education, health, and protection of children as a fundamental responsibility.

Sharif stated that the state should act as a nurturing entity, prioritizing the health, education, protection, and development of children. To combat stunted growth and malnutrition, she announced the initiation of a school nutrition program aimed at enhancing the mental and intellectual development of children from an early age. Additionally, a virtual center for child safety has been established to safeguard children.

The government has also implemented a program to provide free insulin to children at home and a vaccination initiative to protect them from deadly diseases. In response to the needs of children with autism, Pakistan’s first government autism school is under construction. Sharif stressed a policy of zero tolerance towards child abuse and labor, reaffirming the government’s determination to ensure that every child is safe, healthy, and educated. The protection of children’s rights remains a priority, she declared.