Prime Minister Imran Khan has announced universal health coverage through Insaf Health Card for the people of Dera Ghazi Khan and Sahiwal Divisions.

Addressing the launching ceremony in Layyah on Wednesday, he said all families of these divisions will be able to get medical treatment up to 720,000 rupees from government as well as designated private hospitals through the Insaf Health Card. He said an additional amount of 300,000 may be provided to the holders of the card, if necessary, to complete the treatment.

The Prime Minister commended the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments for providing universal health coverage to all his citizens. He said provision of Insaf Health Card will become a great safety net for the poor people. He said universal health coverage scheme will also revamp and upgrade the entire health system of Pakistan. He said it will encourage the private sector to establish hospitals at far flung areas and the government will facilitate them by providing state land and allowing duty free import of necessary medical equipment.

The Prime Minister also appreciated Punjab Government's initiative of establishing mother and child hospitals and solarization of all Basic Health Units across Punjab. He commended Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar for uplifting of backward areas of the province like DG Khan and Sahiwal Divisions. He said inclusive development of backward areas also helps prevent concentration of population in big cities, where provision of civic amenities has become a challenge now.

Regarding recent incident of barbarism by dacoits in the area, Imran Khan announced to take massive operations against these lawbreakers. He said police and Rangers will be directed to eliminate these dacoits to provide protection to the people.