The Special Persons Support Program is a wonderful step taken by the Chief Minister of Punjab to help disabled individuals. Many people face difficulty in walking or difficulty using hands because of an accident, illness, or a congenital problem. With the help of the government, this dream of mobility is becoming a reality. Under this initiative, free wheelchairs, artificial arms, and artificial legs are being provided to special people to help them walk, do work, and live a better life and a happier life. As someone who has seen a disabled person in my own family struggle, I can personally say that when a person no longer feels alone or forced to depend on others, their whole world changes.
The role of Maryam Nawaz in this project is historic. She is providing assistive devices at a scale never seen before in the history of Punjab. From artificial limbs, hearing aids, wheelchairs, and other equipment worth Rs1 billion, all are being given free of cost to people across the province. There are many options now like manual wheelchairs, rollators, tricycles, electric wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs, walking walkers, frame mobile toilet chairs, pads wheelchairs, and controlled wheelchairs depending on individual needs. During the inauguration ceremony, more than 300 special guests attended, and the passion seen at the event in Punjab was unforgettable. At the arrival of the Punjab CM, special girls like Aiza and Ayesha greeted her warmly with bouquets.
Eligibility Criteria for the Special Persons Support Program
To qualify for the Special Persons Support Program, you must meet the following conditions:
- You must be a resident of Punjab.
- You should have a disability certificate issued by a recognized authority.
- You must possess a valid CNIC (identity card) or B-form if you are under 18.
- Your disability should affect your mobility (difficulty walking, loss of hand or foot, etc.).
- You should genuinely need assistive devices like wheelchairs or artificial limbs.
- Priority will be given to those who cannot afford to buy medical equipment themselves.
- People from poor families, villages, and low-income urban areas are especially encouraged to apply.
- You must complete the application process by visiting the nearest DHQ hospital or social welfare office.
By meeting these simple criteria, thousands of deserving individuals can now find new hope and support to live a better and more independent life.
How to Apply for the Special Persons Support Program
The Punjab government has made it very easy to apply for the Special Persons Support Program. If you or your loved one needs assistance, follow these simple steps:
- Go to the nearest hospital or social welfare office – Visit your nearest DHQ hospital or social welfare office to start the application process.
- Bring your necessary documents – Don’t forget to carry your CNIC (identity card), disability certificate, and a recent photograph with you.
- Fill the form directly – There will be a simple form available there that you must fill form yourself or with the help of the staff.
- Get checked by a doctor – A doctor will assess your condition and recommend whether you need a wheelchair or an artificial limb.
- You will be notified after approval – After your application is approved, you will be informed about when and where you can collect belongings like your wheelchair or prosthetic device.
It is truly easy, and the government help is available at every step to make the process smooth and supportive for everyone.
Apply For: https://swd.punjab.gov.pk/
Breaking Barriers with Innovation and Love
During the event, the national anthem was presented with translation into sign language, making it one of the proudest moments for the first province of Pakistan aiming for the ability to rehabilitate disabled people into an active life just like normal people. I was deeply moved seeing how Bionics technology, bringing the world’s most expensive and latest artificial limbs, works with the brain’s signals. One story that touched everyone’s heart was about six-year-old Sohail, who had lost his arm in an electric shock. The artificial arm, installed using Bionics technology, responded to his brain signals and completely changed life for him. When Sohail moved his hands and expressed happiness with clapping, even CM Maryam couldn’t help but shook hands and share a high five with him. Moments like these encouraged everyone and loved ones brought back a lot of emotions on the stage.
In another big move, CM Directs to construct ramps in all government buildings after addressing inauguration ceremony of the provision of assistive devices. She emphasized that ignoring the needs of special individuals is disrespecting them. Speaking against disability-based fun or giving any hurtful name to people, she linked this compassion to bigger programs like Pakistan’s largest ration card program for May 112,000 families with a support of Rs10,000 each, and the grace of Allah Almighty leading to the building of 30,000 houses in just five months under Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Project — a true first in the history of Pakistan where previous governments could not even make 3,000 houses. She promised to achieve the one lakh houses target by the end of current year, along with land ownership rights and free three marla plots for those who don’t own land. As a citizen, witnessing efforts to reach every person needing state help, especially during Ramazan when 3 million people got cheques of Rs10,000 at their doorstep, filled me with pride.
The CM also focused on bridging disparity in our society. She ensured elevators in field hospitals for those with physical weakness, asked them to register at the portal of Social Welfare Department, promising that assistive devices will be delivered homes whenever needed. In Lahore, reported by Dunya News, the historic project of helping aids was further celebrated at a ceremony where Aqeel, a boy with a robotic arm, showed how he could move hand. Seeing little Sohail again giving a high-five to the chief minister, while she handed over automated wheelchairs, tri-wheel scooters, and other devices to children, was heartwarming. The persons with disabilities who attended the event witnessed a new initiative that also included tri-motorcycles, walking frames, mobile toilet chairs, pediatric wheelchairs, and prosthetic limbs — all free of charge according to individual needs. Special participants, like a young girl, impressed everyone by singing the national anthem and reciting Quranic verses using sign language, as the Provincial Minister, Sohail Shaukat Butt, addressed the audience about this beautiful project.
Helping Disabled Persons Live Better Lives
The Special Persons Support Program is a new welfare scheme designed to help the disabled lead better lives. Through the efforts of the government, many who were suffering silently without free medical equipment like wheelchairs or artificial hands and artificial legs (also known as prosthetics) now have hope. In Punjab, many people were living a life of silent suffering because they lacked resources. Recognizing this struggle, the government stepped forward to support them in a meaningful way.
I have personally seen relatives who couldn’t afford a basic wheelchair and had to depend on others for every small movement. Programs like the Special Persons Support Program are life-changing for such people.
Key Benefits of the Special Persons Support Program
One major advantage is the Free Wheelchair service. For those who cannot walk, the government is providing wheelchairs to help them move around comfortably. Similarly, the Free Artificial Hand or Foot initiative gives those without a hand or foot a chance to regain independence and work again.
The program is even setting up Doctor Camp services. These special camps across Punjab will have doctors who will check up on individuals and recommend the necessary equipment based on their need. From what I’ve seen at some health camps, the care provided there feels deeply personal and respectful.
Moreover, there is Easy Registration for everyone. People will not face difficulty; they just need to visit their nearest health center or social welfare office and fill form easily. Special attention has been given to the Concern for the Poor and Villagers, focusing mainly on poor people living in villages who lack money for such essential devices.
This initiative is truly helpful for all those who earlier found it difficult to walk or difficult to work, giving them the chance to live lives easily and with dignity.
Impact of the Special Persons Support Program on Individuals and Families
Disability often brings countless difficulties in daily life. It becomes difficult to go to school, to earn money, or even to handle household chores. That’s where the Special Persons Support Program brings hope and dignity back into people’s lives. A simple wheelchair or prosthetic limb might seem small to others, but for someone in need, it becomes a life-changing gift.
Personally, I once saw a boy whose life transformed completely after receiving a donated wheelchair; he could finally go to school without being carried every day. It is these small things that create huge impacts.
This program not only helps the person with disability but also reduces burden on families. When a disabled individual becomes more independent, more confident, and more active in society, the entire family breathes a sigh of relief. It brings emotional and practical stability back into their homes.
Reaching Every Corner of Punjab: Ensuring No One Is Left Behind
The Chief Minister has made it clear: the program must reach every city, village, and town. From Lahore to Layyah, from Multan to Murree, special teams are working hard, visiting areas and registering people. Awareness campaigns are also being run, ensuring that no one left behind.
The objective is simple and powerful: no disabled person in Punjab should ever feel alone or helpless again.
The Government’s Message of Support and Empowerment for Special Persons
The program represents a great help that the government has offered for special people. It is created to make life easier for those who cannot walk or who have missing body parts. Beyond simply giving essential goods, the real goal is to build self-esteem and independence.
This effort gives people a chance to rebuild lives and do their own things without depending entirely on others. The government’s message is clear: every human being is important, and no one will be left alone in their time of need. We are taught that every member of society must be taken care of, no matter what their condition might be.
Conclusion
The Special Persons Support Program is more than just a government initiative; it is a symbol of hope, dignity, and care for thousands across Punjab. Through the support of the Punjab government, individuals with disability are being given a real chance to live independently and confidently. Providing free wheelchairs, prosthetic limbs, and essential medical support has changed lives in a way that words alone cannot describe.
From setting up special camps to ensuring easy registration, and reaching every village, city, and town, the program ensures that no one is left behind. The message is clear: every citizen is valued, and everyone deserves a chance at a better life. By giving back mobility, freedom, and respect to special people, Punjab sets a new example of compassion and responsibility for all of Pakistan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the Special Persons Support Program?
Anyone living in Punjab who has a certified disability and requires mobility assistance such as a wheelchair or artificial limb can apply.
2. What documents are required for registration?
You will need your CNIC (identity card), disability certificate, and a recent photograph when you visit the nearest DHQ hospital or social welfare office.
3. How much does it cost to get a wheelchair or prosthetic limb?
All equipment under this program, including wheelchairs and artificial limbs, is provided free of cost to eligible individuals.
4. Where do I go to register for the program?
Visit your nearest hospital (specifically DHQ hospitals) or social welfare office in your district to fill the registration form and get a doctor’s assessment.
5. How long does the approval process take?
After filling the form and being examined by a doctor, your application will be processed. You will be notified after approval about when and where to collect your assistive devices.
6. Does the program cover rural areas too?
Yes, special teams are actively visiting cities, towns, and villages across Punjab, including areas like Lahore, Layyah, Multan, and Murree, to register individuals and deliver support.
7. What types of assistive devices are given through this program?
The program provides manual wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs, tricycles, prosthetic hands and legs, and other essential mobility aids according to the person’s needs.
