LAHORE: The Punjab government has launched the Chief Minister Climate Leadership Development Internship Programme “Mera Punjab Smog Free” offering young graduates Rs25,000 scholarship for undertaking steps for the improvement of the province as community service.

In her message on the occasion, CM Maryam Nawaz said, “We need to undertake steps collectively for the permanent elimination of smog. Under the Smog-Free Punjab Initiative, young graduates will render distinctive community service. The graduates completing their degrees in the last two years may apply.”

The CM added that the internees would be paid Rs25,000 per month stipend under the programme, which would provide a platform for community service and environmental protection.

Registration for the internship programme can be done by July 20, 2024 and those between the ages of 18 and 25 years will be eligible for it.

The participants will also be awarded ‘Community Service Certificate’ on completion of their internship programme.

The CM appealed to the people to support the government in its efforts for resolving serious issue of smog by planting trees taking measures for curbing smoke emissions from vehicles and factories.

She also called for reducing the use of plastic in daily life and refraining from burning crop stubble and residue.

Meanwhile, the chief minister has welcomed the calling off of the strike by the flour mills.

She hoped that the Pakistan Flour Mills Association would not oppose the imposition of withholding tax in Punjab.

She thanked the association’s leadership for unanimously deciding not to observe any strike in Punjab, assuring the body that she would play a proactive role for the resolution of legitimate reservations and issues of the flour millers.

Published in Dawn, July 15th, 2024