E-challan tough but necessary step for public good: Sharjeel Memon

KARACHI: Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has said that the recently introduced e-challan system is receiving positive feedback from the public.

Addressing a press conference in Karachi, he said that two prominent business figures of the city have also termed the e-challan system a positive step towards ensuring rule of law.

Commenting on criticism from political parties over the e-challan system, Memon said that traffic violations cost human lives, and the purpose of the initiative is to ensure strict enforcement of traffic laws. “The government is not afraid of anyone,” he added.

He further said, “Difficult decisions are always painful, but their purpose is to improve public welfare and maintain discipline. Our wish is that the government doesn’t have to collect even a single rupee in challans, as the real goal is to make people habitual of obeying the law.”

Direct support for farmers

He said that the Sindh government has decided to provide substantial financial support to farmers across the province.

Earlier, the Sindh government had announced a Rs58 billion relief package for wheat farmers that will benefit around 411,000 cultivators owning between one and 25 acres of land.

He said the government will offer direct cash assistance to farmers to help boost agricultural production and achieve food self-sufficiency.

According to Memon, under the programme, farmers will receive the first instalment of Rs14,000 per acre to purchase DAP fertiliser. Verification will be carried out two to three weeks after wheat sowing.

He said that farmers whose wheat cultivation is verified will receive an additional Rs8,000 per acre to purchase two bags of urea fertiliser.

Calling it a major step towards the economic recovery of farmers, agricultural stability, and food security, the minister said that so far, 419,000 farmers have been provided financial assistance through the “Hari Card.”

He said that more than 350,000 applications have been received for the Hari Card, of which verification of 180,000 applications has been completed.