LAHORE   -  Provincial Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs (HR&MA) Ejaz Alam Augustine Monday said that the Punjab government had taken historic steps for the elimination of gender discrimination, protection of woman rights and socioeconomic empowerment of women. In his message on the occasion of International Women’s Day, he said: “The day makes us realise that women are an important part of our society, and it is duty of all of us to ensure provision of equal rights to them with elimination of all forms of violence.”

He added that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar, the government was determined to take women into mainstream and provide equal opportunities in practical life.

The minister said that numerous steps had been taken for women during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rule. “Awareness campaigns have been launched including the establishment of daycare centers. Punjab Women Helpline 1043 has also been established to guide women for solving their all kinds of problems,” he added. He also maintained that effective legislation was being carried out in the Punjab Assembly for protection of women’s rights and prevention of violence against them.

Ejaz Alam maintained that representation of women at all levels was being ensured. He said that the dream of prosperity and women empowerment could only be materialised by providing equal opportunities. He also appreciated the role of women in the development of the country.