Punjab Province

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has reaffirmed her commitment to transforming barren lands across the province into productive economic zones under the government’s ‘Blue Economy Programme.’
Reviewing progress on shrimp farming projects, the chief minister expressed satisfaction over the pace of development in Sargodha Estate, Ali Wala and Shah Garh, and appreciated the teams for accelerating work.
In Sargodha, major milestones have been achieved, including the excavation of 118 ponds, installation of 116 tube wells, and completion of land clearing and surveys across 365 acres. Construction of a warehouse is nearing completion, while work on the administration block and feed store is progressing steadily. The overall project covers 500 acres.
At the Ali Wala shrimp estate, 90 percent of the allocated 1,267 acres has been cleared. Out of 737 ponds, 642 have been excavated, while drainage infrastructure is 91 percent complete. MDC drains have been fully developed, alongside a 9 kilometre road network. Earth filling work has reached 80 percent, and foundations for key facilities, including offices, hostels, warehouses and labour residences, have been laid.
Meanwhile, the Shah Garh shrimp farm has also recorded substantial progress, with 90 percent of water supply systems completed, electrification at 95 percent, and access road construction at 97 percent. Technical experts have submitted their reports, confirming the viability of the projects.
The chief minister highlighted that promoting aquaculture and shrimp farming in line with international standards would not only rehabilitate unused land but also generate employment and enhance export potential.
She noted that the Blue Economy Programme represents the first government-backed initiative in Punjab to introduce a modern, scientific approach to shrimp farming.
Experts involved in the project have found local water temperatures suitable for cultivation, while ongoing feeding and supplement practices are yielding encouraging results in both quality and output.
Maryam Nawaz reiterated that the initiative would play a key role in positioning Punjab as a leading hub for aquaculture in the region.

Lahore: [Riaz Hussain ReNews Pakistan]
The elected leadership of the DHA Estate Agents Association and senior realtors from the market held an important meeting with the top management of DHA Lahore, which was described as highly positive and productive.
The meeting was attended by DHA Lahore Administrator Brigadier Kashif, Phase 10 Project Director Brigadier Altaf, Secretary DHA Brigadier Abdul Rauf, and Colonel Amir, along with other officials. Key community related issues were discussed, with a detailed exchange of views on making the property transfer process more efficient and user friendly.
During the meeting, various options were also explored to create new business opportunities through partnerships between DHA management and the business community, aimed at boosting activity in the real estate sector.
On the occasion, a special facility for overseas Pakistanis was also announced. A dedicated counter has been established at DHA offices, where overseas clients can conveniently resolve their property transfer related issues. This facility is also expected to be extended soon through authorized registered dealers.
Furthermore, the meeting reviewed proposals to improve the marketing of properties listed for sale under property exchange, encourage the purchase of multiple properties through a single membership, and restore confidence in the market to enhance business activity.
Participants also expressed hope that the government, through the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), will soon introduce relief in taxes and official rates, which would further improve and stabilize the real estate sector.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
Pakistan’s push to transition towards a knowledge based digital economy gained strong backing from the business community as the Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) highlighted the transformative potential of CPEC 2.0 alongside the government’s proposed $1 billion artificial intelligence (AI) fund.
Industry stakeholders believe the convergence of these initiatives could mark a turning point for the country’s economic trajectory, particularly by leveraging its young population. With approximately 63% of citizens under the age of 30, Pakistan stands among the youngest nations globally, offering a significant demographic advantage if effectively harnessed.
PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain described the proposed AI fund as a timely and strategic move capable of strengthening governance, fostering innovation and creating new economic opportunities. He emphasized that integrating advanced technologies into national development frameworks is essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.
According to the chamber, the AI fund envisions a wide-ranging technological overhaul. Key proposals include introducing AI education in federally administered schools, awarding 1,000 fully funded PhD scholarships by 2030 and training one million non IT professionals in AI-related skills. These measures are aimed at equipping the workforce to adapt to rapidly evolving technological demands while enhancing productivity across traditional industries.
Experts note that developing a nationwide technological ecosystem will be critical. Upskilling non IT workers is expected to improve livelihoods, increase efficiency and enable sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and services to integrate modern digital solutions.
The urgency of such reforms is underscored by global trends. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that digital economies in developing countries can grow two to three times faster than traditional ones. Pakistan, however, currently contributes less than 1% to global AI research, highlighting both the challenge and opportunity ahead.
A Lahore based technology policy analyst pointed out that Pakistan’s strength lies not only in its youthful population but also in its expanding digital connectivity, with mobile internet users surpassing 200 million in early 2026. The analyst stressed that meaningful AI adoption would depend on building local datasets, nurturing domestic talent and developing solutions tailored to local needs rather than relying on imported technologies.
PCJCCI also linked the AI initiative with the broader framework of CPEC 2.0, noting its alignment with the government’s “Uraan Pakistan” programme, which focuses on export growth, affordable energy, operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. The chamber believes that aligning these policy directions can significantly enhance Pakistan’s economic resilience and global competitiveness.
China is expected to play a pivotal role in this transformation. As a global leader in AI investment, with projected spending of $125 billion in 2026, China offers opportunities for technology transfer, joint research and infrastructure development under the CPEC umbrella. PCJCCI has indicated its intention to facilitate such collaborations through public-private partnerships aimed at long-term, sustainable growth.
Analysts conclude that while the vision is ambitious, its success will depend on effective implementation, institutional capacity and sustained investment in human capital.