Lahore: The Women Development Department organized a ceremony to mark 79th year of Independence, attended by Parliamentary Secretary Sadia Taimoor, Secretary Saman Rai and officers and officials of the department. Additional Secretary Faiza Ahsan, Secretary Punjab Commission on the Status of Women (PCSW) Tahira Akram, Director General Women Hostel Authority Tariq Khan Niazi and Deputy Secretary Women Development Department Kanwal Sabir also participated.
The national flag was hoisted during the ceremony and special prayers were offered for the security, stability, progress and prosperity of Pakistan.
Addressing the ceremony, Parliamentary Secretary Sadia Taimoor said Independence Day reminded the nation of the purpose behind the creation of Pakistan, the sacrifices of its elders and its responsibilities towards national development. She said Independence Day was not merely a day of celebration but an opportunity to renew the resolve to play a meaningful role in the country’s progress, stability and prosperity. She added that women were playing an important role in Pakistan’s development and sustainable national progress was not possible without empowering women. The Punjab government was taking practical measures to provide women with opportunities in education, skills, employment and economic empowerment.
Secretary Women Development Department Saman Rai said Independence Day provided an opportunity to promote the spirit of unity, national cohesion and service. She said the development of women was directly linked to the progress of families, society and the national economy. She reaffirmed that the department would continue its efforts to provide women with a supportive environment, protection and opportunities for development. The participating officers also expressed their resolve to perform their responsibilities for Pakistan’s development and women’s welfare and empowerment with greater dedication, commitment and professionalism.
