Maryam Nawaz
LAHORE: In a significant step towards improving child healthcare in Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Monday officially launched the “CM Insulin for Diabetes” programme, aimed at supporting young children diagnosed with type-I congenital diabetes.
The initiative, which is part of her broader “Sehatmand Punjab” vision, seeks to provide critical medical supplies, including insulin and monitoring tools, directly to the homes of underprivileged families.
Demonstrating her hands-on approach and personal commitment to the cause, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz personally visited the homes of several diabetic children alongside Pakistan Post riders.
At each stop, she distributed insulin kits, which included insulin vials, glucometers, blood sugar monitoring strips (BSR), and boxes of needles. Her visits offered not just medical aid, but also emotional support and encouragement to families dealing with the daily challenges of managing childhood diabetes.
While speaking to the families, Maryam Nawaz expressed her deep concern and empathy for children suffering from this lifelong condition. “I truly understand the pain and anxiety that parents go through when their child is diagnosed with diabetes. This free insulin programme is not just a healthcare policy—it’s a moral responsibility we owe to our children and their families,” she remarked. She added that the initiative was launched in response to the heartfelt requests of parents who could not afford regular insulin and medical equipment for their children.
Highlighting the urgency and scale of the problem, the Chief Minister stated that the alarming rise in diabetes among children was a matter of grave concern for her government. “Children are the future of our nation. Their health and well-being are of paramount importance. We are committed to ensuring that no child in Punjab suffers due to lack of medical care,” she said.
During an official briefing, Maryam Nawaz was informed that in the first phase of the programme, 1,500 children diagnosed with type-I diabetes will receive free insulin delivered to their doorsteps.
This will be facilitated by Pakistan Post, whose riders will use a specially developed mobile app to scan and verify insulin cards before handing over the medical supplies. Each delivery will include a three-month supply of insulin, transported under a secure cold chain system to ensure quality and safety.
This initiative marks the first time that glucometers and test strips are being included as part of the free insulin package, offering a more comprehensive approach to diabetes management in children. The Punjab government’s move is widely being hailed as a compassionate and groundbreaking step in public health policy.
