Author: dailybalochistantimes.com

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has stressed the need for the protection of the rights and independence of special individuals, stating that the provincial government is working tirelessly to ensure that no child, regardless of their disability, is deprived of their fundamental rights.

In a special message on World Braille Day, dedicated to the visually impaired "special heroes," the CM highlighted the significant progress made in providing accessible education and resources to the blind community in Punjab. CM Maryam Nawaz noted that state-of-the-art Braille presses are operational in Lahore and Bahawalpur, through which Braille books are being distributed free of charge to both government and private institutions across the province. She emphasized that the upgrade of these Braille presses has made it possible to provide special individuals with educational material that meets international standards.

The chief minister pointed out that the Braille system is a vital tool for imparting knowledge and awareness to visually impaired individuals. She also shared that over 3,000 special children have been enrolled in educational institutions across Punjab this year, with more than 15,000 Braille books already distributed to visually impaired students. She mentioned that Braille copies of the Quran are also being provided to blind students to facilitate their religious education.

Highlighting the government's ongoing efforts to address the educational needs of special individuals, CM Maryam Nawaz said that assistive devices and tools are being provided to students with disabilities to support their learning. The Special Education Department is undergoing significant reforms to modernize its approach and ensure that special education institutions are fully equipped with the necessary facilities and resources.

In addition to educational support, the government is also focused on alleviating the economic hardships faced by special individuals. Financial assistance is being provided through the "Himmat Card" initiative to reduce the financial burden on people with disabilities. For children with hearing impairments, assistive devices have been provided to facilitate their active participation in social and educational activities.

The CM further emphasized the government's commitment to providing additional resources to meet the educational needs of special individuals. She also shared that work on Pakistan's first Autism School is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed soon. Creating ease and opportunities for special heroes is one of the administration's top priorities.

The CM praised Pakistan's Blind Cricket Team as national heroes, acknowledging their remarkable achievements and the pride they bring to the country. She stated that their success is a testament to the resilience and talent of special individuals, and their accomplishments have significantly raised the profile of the nation on the global stage.

Lahore: The Alhamra Arts Council set the stage for a vibrant evening of classical music, celebrating the richness of Eastern melodies.

The Alhamra's spokesperson told media on Saturday that the event featured renowned vocalist Ghulam Abbas as the guest of honour, warmly received with a bouquet by Chairman Alhamra Razi Ahmed and Executive Director Tauqeer Haider Kazmi.

The highlight of the evening was the exceptional performances by instructors and emerging artists from the Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts. Well-regarded Sitar and Tabla maestros Ustad Saleem and Shahid Ali Khan captivated the audience with their masterful renditions. World-renowned sarangi player Zohaib Hassan added an enchanting touch, leaving the audience spellbound with his unparalleled artistry.

Chairman BOG Razi Ahmed remarked, "Alhamra is deeply committed to nurturing classical music. Under the guidance of expert instructors, the Academy is preserving and propagating this invaluable art form. Instruments like sitar and Tabla hold fundamental significance in Eastern music, and their revival is a monumental task we proudly undertake."

Executive Director Alhamra Syed Tauqeer Haider Kazmi highlighted the historical importance of traditional Eastern instruments, stating, "The Alhamra Academy has taken on the responsibility of safeguarding and transmitting these timeless musical traditions to future generations. We are privileged to have a wealth of experienced instructors dedicated to this mission."

The event was masterfully hosted by Naveen Roma, whose unique style added charm to the evening. The packed auditorium resonated with continuous applause as the audience celebrated the exceptional talent and dedication of the performers.

With this spectacular beginning to the new year, Alhamra has set the tone for a series of vibrant cultural programs and festivals, promising unforgettable experiences for art enthusiasts in the days ahead.