Key Takeaways
- Punjab government disburses Rs14.5 billion to mosque imams.
- More than 76,000 mosques registered across the province.
- Programme aims to promote peace and positive social values.
The Punjab government has registered over 76,000 mosques across the province, a significant milestone in the Chief Minister’s Imam Masjid Sahibaan Honorarium Programme. This initiative, aimed at supporting mosque imams, has seen the distribution of Rs14.5 billion as honoraria.
During the fifth meeting of the programme’s steering committee, chaired by Provincial Minister and Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order, Khawaja Salman Rafique, it was highlighted that the registration process has been completed with the support of field administrations. The geo-tagging of mosques is also progressing smoothly.
Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi, Secretary Home Punjab, briefed the meeting on the programme’s progress, stating that the department is overseeing its implementation and operational matters under the provincial government’s directions. He emphasized that the honorarium disbursement system has been made transparent and convenient, with complaints being addressed promptly through an online portal.
To further assist mosque imams, the department is introducing a chatbot to help resolve issues and provide timely information. The Bank of Punjab and the Punjab Information Technology Board have been directed to resolve any issues related to the online application process promptly.
Khawaja Salman Rafique expressed confidence that the programme would produce positive results for generations to come. He highlighted the importance of mosque imams in nation-building and their role in promoting peace, tolerance, and positive social values.
The programme also mandates that mosque imams ensure at least one transaction every three months through their bank accounts to keep them active and avoid interruptions in honorarium payments. This measure ensures the continuity of the programme and the timely disbursement of funds.
The registration of mosques across the province is described as a major challenge that has been successfully addressed by the Home Department. The minister emphasized the transparency and convenience of the process, which has been well-received by the community.
The programme’s success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of various departments and the support of field administrations. The Punjab government’s commitment to supporting mosque imams and promoting positive social values through this initiative is evident.
