Islamabad: The National Assembly was informed today about the government's enhancement of welfare, education, and housing initiatives for overseas Pakistanis and their families this year.
According to Radio Pakistan, Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis Awn Saqlain addressed the assembly during the Question Hour, detailing various support measures. These include financial assistance for the families of overseas Pakistanis in cases of death and disability, as well as a free ambulance service for transporting human remains and critically ill individuals from international airports in Pakistan to their hometowns. Additionally, a funeral grant of twenty-five thousand is available for needy families of deceased overseas Pakistanis.
Awn Saqlain also highlighted the efforts of the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF), which has integrated its online complaint management system with the Pakistan Citizens Portal for efficient complaint resolution. The OPF has launched twenty-seven educational institutions nationwide, including in Azad Kashmir, and is establishing a housing scheme for Overseas Pakistanis in Rawalpindi, covering an area of 640 kanals.
The assembly was also informed about dedicated women facilitation desks at police stations in Islamabad, designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for women. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry explained that technology-enabled police stations offer secure, confidential, and gender-responsive services through trained female staff and digital systems. Joint patrolling by male and female police officials is conducted to ensure effective and inclusive policing.
Chaudhry further mentioned that Safe City Islamabad maintains digital records of hostels, hotels, and guest houses with software systems to enhance security.
Additionally, 'The Copyright (Amendment) Bill, 2026' was introduced in the House by Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and was referred to the Standing Committee for further consideration. The assembly will reconvene on Tuesday at 12 noon.