The Punjab government on Monday revealed a series of ambitious healthcare reforms within its provincial budget for the fiscal year 2025-26. Key initiatives include the establishment of the Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital in Lahore and the transformation of Basic Health Units (BHUs) into Maryam Health Clinics across the province.
Presenting the budget in the Punjab Assembly amidst vocal protests from opposition members, Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman announced the construction of a state-of-the-art cancer treatment facility, named after former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. This hospital, estimated to cost Rs72 billion, will be built in the provincial capital. The new facility aims to alleviate the increasing burden of cancer in Punjab by providing specialized treatment and diagnostic services to patients from all districts. “This initiative will significantly reduce the need for patients to travel abroad or to private institutions for cancer care,” Mr. Shuja-ur-Rehman informed the House.
He further disclosed a significant overhaul of primary healthcare services, with plans to upgrade BHUs into Maryam Health Clinics. Named in honor of PML-N’s chief organizer Maryam Nawaz, these clinics will offer expanded primary healthcare services, with an enhanced focus on maternal and child health, comprehensive vaccination programs, and modern digital record-keeping. “This is not merely a name change; it signifies a fundamental transformation in the quality and accessibility of grassroots healthcare delivery in Punjab,” the minister affirmed.
The finance minister’s speech also outlined broader fiscal allocations, with a total outlay of Rs2,706.5 billion earmarked for non-development expenditures, encompassing salaries, pensions, and operational costs. Despite financial constraints, health remained a central focus, underscoring the government’s stated commitment to social sector investment. The budget presentation was marked by loud slogans and walkouts by opposition members, who characterized the fiscal proposals as “unrealistic” and “politically motivated.” Conversely, treasury members contended that these reforms represent a new chapter in equitable and inclusive healthcare provision.
