LAHORE: The Punjab Human Organ Transplantation Authority’s revised budget estimate for the fiscal year 2025-26 and the budget estimate for 2026-27 have received approval. This decision was made during the 41st meeting of the Monitoring Authority chaired by Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique. The meeting also included the presentation of the minutes from the 40th session and was attended by several key officials, including Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Waseem and Professor Dr. Muhammad Amir Zaman Khan.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the session saw the participation of notable figures such as Dr. Saqib Aziz, CEO of the Punjab Healthcare Commission, and Dr. Izhar Ahmed Chaudhry, President of the Pakistan Medical Association. Discussions were held via video link with Dean PKLI Professor Faisal Saud Dar, who was congratulated by Provincial Minister Rafique and others for receiving the Hilal-e-Imtiaz honor.

During the meeting, Minister Rafique reaffirmed the commitment to enhancing PHOTA’s capacity in line with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision. The minister highlighted ongoing efforts to improve health facilities and emphasized that stringent measures are being taken against illegal organ transplantation in Punjab, which has been crucial in saving numerous lives.

Professor Aamir Zaman Khan, Director General of PHOTA, emphasized the development of the authority along modern lines as per the Punjab government’s vision. He reiterated that those involved in illegal organ transplants in the region will not receive any leniency.