Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently revived and significantly extended the Health Card Program across Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). This crucial initiative strongly reaffirms the federal government’s unwavering commitment to providing quality healthcare. Indeed, universal healthcare access is a fundamental right for every citizen, regardless of their social or economic background.
Expanding Access: The Health Card Program’s Reach
Addressing the launch ceremony, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted this initiative as a major stride towards delivering healthcare facilities directly to people’s doorsteps. Furthermore, he recalled that Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif first introduced this vital scheme in 2016. Subsequently, it expanded rapidly across various provinces, demonstrating its early success and widespread acceptance.
Health: A Foundation for Progress
The Prime Minister emphasized that health is life’s most valuable asset. “If there is health, there is education; if there is health, there is dignified employment; if there is health, there is progress in every field of life,” he asserted. Consequently, affluent members of society can easily afford expensive medical treatments globally. However, the true measure of a state’s effectiveness lies in protecting vulnerable populations. Specifically, this includes the poor, widows, orphans, and daily wage earners who constantly struggle financially.
He profoundly stated, “If a laborer falls ill and leaves this world without treatment, his children are left in permanent darkness.” Therefore, healthcare access is an undeniable right for every Pakistani, from the Prime Minister to a street vendor. This powerful message underscores the program’s inclusive nature and its mission to uplift the most deserving citizens.
Ensuring Transparency and National Impact
Prime Minister Sharif congratulated Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal, the Secretary of Health, and their dedicated team on the successful launch. He urged them to ensure transparent implementation through robust third-party monitoring. This rigorous oversight will guarantee that treatment is provided at the correct facilities and adheres to proper standards. He expressed confidence that the program’s honest execution would benefit people significantly, earning rewards in both this life and the hereafter.
Future Expansion and Monitoring
Expressing strong hope, the Prime Minister stated that the scheme would be implemented swiftly and effectively. Moreover, he assured personal monitoring through visits and inspections. This collaborative effort will involve Islamabad’s health leadership, parliamentarians, the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, and the Prime Minister of AJK. When asked about extending the program to Sindh, he deemed the proposal valid. He further pledged to personally discuss the matter with the Chief Minister of Sindh, demonstrating a commitment to nationwide coverage.
Significantly, the program is already advancing rapidly in Punjab, with billions of rupees allocated for healthcare. He commended the Punjab government for its commendable efforts. Although other provinces have their own health initiatives, the federal government will strive to ensure similar facilities become available across the entire nation. Ultimately, the Prime Minister hopes the Health Card Program will gain momentum, bringing relief to millions of Pakistani families. “May Allah help us in serving the people,” he concluded, praying for the initiative’s success and Pakistan’s prosperity.
Confronting Terrorism: A National Resolve
In a separate but equally important address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the government’s steadfast resolve to defeat terrorism. He emphasized the necessity of a unified national effort, stressing that peace, stability, and prosperity remain Pakistan’s paramount objectives. Chairing a meeting of the Qaumi Paigham-e-Aman Committee (QPAC), the Prime Minister highlighted the committee’s pivotal role. It aims to strengthen the national narrative against extremism and terrorism, mirroring the historic role played by Ulema during Pakistan’s formation.
Upholding Principles of Peace and Justice
Pakistan was created to embody the principles of peace, justice, and tolerance, he recalled. The nation is now steadily progressing towards greater prosperity and stability. Furthermore, Almighty Allah has blessed Pakistan with vast natural resources, valued at trillions of dollars. If explored efficiently, these resources could significantly help overcome challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and national debts. “This task is difficult but not impossible,” he remarked, underscoring the critical need for collective resolve and national unity.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged Pakistan’s demonstrated strength in May 2025 during Maareka-e-Haq, where it decisively defeated India. This victory, he stated, was due to Allah Almighty’s blessings and the armed forces’ professional capabilities under Field Marshal Asim Munir. While Pakistan is on a fast track to development, terrorism remains the most serious challenge confronting the nation.
He noted that over 100,000 Pakistanis have embraced martyrdom in the war against terrorism. He urged the international community to recognize Pakistan’s immense sacrifices, adding that the country possesses solid evidence of external support provided to terrorist elements within Pakistan. Confidently, he expressed that Pakistan would once again overcome terrorism. He also highlighted the positive role of minorities in national development, advocating for interfaith harmony to ensure lasting peace.
