On Thursday, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif introduced the Shuhada Package to aid the families of martyred federal officials. This package includes financial support, housing allowances, free education and healthcare. He launched this initiative during a visit to the family of late Customs Inspector Syed Hasnain Ali Tirmizi, who died recently in a shooting in Dera Ismail Khan. During the visit, he presented the family with a cheque and pledged comprehensive efforts to protect customs officials from smuggling threats.
Additionally, he confirmed that the Punjab government’s previous initiative had been broadened to include federal employees and mentioned potential future enhancements based on financial assessments. Under this program, families of deceased sepoys receive substantial financial and housing assistance, while the relatives of customs inspectors get even larger benefits. The scheme also encompasses civilian and law enforcement personnel.
Accompanied by government and party leaders, the prime minister stressed the unified approach of various government bodies to combat smuggling. He highlighted the critical link between tackling smuggling and achieving economic stability, noting it as a key government duty.
Furthermore, he expressed gratitude towards military and provincial leaders for supporting the anti-smuggling efforts, which aim to boost local consumption and increase legitimate exports. He urged federal and provincial officials to view smuggling as a mutual threat and to commit fully to overcoming it to safeguard the economy, invoking divine support for these endeavours.
