The “Maryam Ki Dastak Programme Extended” initiative has now expanded its reach, benefiting citizens across 32 districts in Pakistan. This extension is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to provide essential services directly to the doorstep of citizens, promoting convenience, accessibility, and transparency. It is a groundbreaking move that ensures that vital government services are available to more people, especially in underserved and remote areas.
Purpose Behind the Extension of Maryam Ki Dastak Programme
The programme was initially launched with the aim of improving government service delivery by providing direct access to citizens, particularly targeting rural and underprivileged communities. Now, with the extension to 32 districts, it seeks to cover more areas, ensuring that even those living in the most remote regions can benefit from essential government services such as health records, birth and death certificates, and educational documents.
32 districts that will now benefit from this service include:
Lahore | Multan | Rawalpindi | Faisalabad | Sialkot | Sheikhupura | Gujranwala | Bahawalpur | Sargodha | Rajanpur | Chiniot | Toba Tek Singh | Kasur | Okara | Attock | Bhakkar | Narowal | Mandi Bahauddin | Dera Ghazi Khan | Layyah | Gujrat | Jhelum | Khanewal | Vehari | Mianwali | Sahiwal | Hafizabad | Pakpattan | Jhang | Chakwal | Muzaffargarh | Nankana Sahib
With the program’s rollout in these districts, citizens can now access services like marriage certificates, driving licenses, and e-stamping from the comfort of their homes. This digital transformation helps save time and reduces the burden on government offices, providing a streamlined, user-friendly experience for all.
Key Services Provided Under Maryam Ki Dastak Programme
The primary goal of this initiative is to reduce the time and effort citizens spend accessing government services. Through Maryam Ki Dastak, citizens can now access more than 65 government services online or through mobile outreach teams. These services include:
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Educational Certificates: Application and issuance of academic certificates.
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Health Records: Access to medical records and health services.
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Property Verifications: Easy access to property-related documents.
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Social Welfare: Services related to financial assistance and welfare programs.
This move will have a significant impact on people who have historically struggled with long wait times and travel costs to reach government offices, especially in rural areas where resources are often scarce.
Impact on Women and Vulnerable Groups
One of the most significant aspects of the “Maryam Ki Dastak Programme Extended” is its focus on empowering women and vulnerable groups. Women, especially those living in rural and remote districts, face multiple barriers when accessing government services, from cultural constraints to lack of transportation. This programme ensures that these individuals, often neglected by traditional service models, can avail themselves of services without the need to leave their homes.
How the Extension is Changing the Government Service Landscape
With the expansion of this programme, the Punjab government is setting a precedent for digital transformation in Pakistan’s public service sector. The integration of technology into everyday services not only enhances the convenience for citizens but also reduces inefficiencies and ensures better transparency in service delivery. Furthermore, this programme is expected to foster a more customer-oriented approach to governance, as government services are now being directly tailored to meet the needs of the public.
Future Plans for the Maryam Ki Dastak Programme
The extension of Maryam Ki Dastak is just the beginning. Future plans involve the inclusion of additional districts and services, making the programme even more comprehensive. The government aims to continue improving the technological infrastructure, ensuring a seamless experience for citizens.
Additionally, training local representatives and service delivery teams will further enhance the programme’s reach and effectiveness. The Maryam Ki Dastak Programme has proven to be a revolutionary step in making government services more accessible and transparent.
By extending this initiative to 32 districts, the Punjab government has significantly broadened its scope, enabling more citizens to benefit from essential services without the traditional barriers. As the programme continues to evolve, it is expected to serve as a model for digital governance in Pakistan.
Also Read: Maryam Health Clinics: Improving Rural Healthcare
