The Punjab government on Monday unveiled a string of ambitious healthcare reforms in its provincial budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, including the establishment of the Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital in Lahore and the conversion of Basic Health Units (BHUs) into Maryam Health Clinics across the province.

Presenting the budget in the Punjab Assembly amid vociferous protests by opposition members, Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman announced that a state-of-the-art cancer treatment facility, named after former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, would be constructed in the provincial capital at an estimated cost of Rs72 billion.

The hospital is aimed at addressing the growing burden of cancer in Punjab by offering specialised treatment and diagnostics to patients from all districts. “This initiative will significantly reduce the need for patients to travel abroad or to private institutions for cancer care,” Mr Shuja-ur-Rehman told the House.

He further revealed that a major overhaul of primary healthcare services was underway, with plans to upgrade BHUs into Maryam Health Clinics. Named after PML-N’s chief organiser Maryam Nawaz, the clinics will offer extended primary healthcare services, with added focus on maternal and child health, vaccinations, and digital record-keeping.

“This is not just a name change; it represents a fundamental shift in the quality and accessibility of grassroots healthcare delivery in Punjab,” the minister said.

The finance minister’s speech also highlighted broader fiscal allocations, with a total outlay of Rs2,706.5 billion earmarked for non-development expenditures, including salaries, pensions, and operational costs. However, health remained a focal point, reflecting the government’s stated commitment to social sector investment despite financial constraints.

The budget presentation was marred by loud slogans and walkouts staged by opposition members, who termed the fiscal proposals “unrealistic” and “politically motivated.” However, treasury members countered that the reforms marked a new chapter in equitable and inclusive healthcare delivery.