Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi has emphatically described the Prime Minister's Laptop Scheme as a clear and powerful symbol of merit and performance, underscoring its role in rewarding deserving and qualified students for their unwavering hard work and academic excellence.
Merit-Based Distribution at PMAS-AAUR
Addressing a significant ceremony for the distribution of laptops under the scheme at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR) on Thursday, Minister Abbasi articulated that the current leadership takes immense pride in tangible achievements and concrete performance over mere slogans and rhetoric. He highlighted that the laptop scheme was originally initiated when Shehbaz Sharif served as Chief Minister of Punjab and has now been successfully reinitiated at the federal level under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
"Its core objective is to strategically equip the youth with modern tools and align them with contemporary demands," he added, reinforcing the scheme's forward-looking vision.
Abbasi stressed that merit rigorously prevails in all aspects of the scheme, ensuring that laptops are allocated exclusively to qualified and high-achieving students who are rightfully honored for their diligent efforts and academic accomplishments.
Historic Milestones in Pakistan Railways
Shifting focus to the transportation sector, the minister proudly announced that Pakistan Railways recorded an impressive Rs10.0 billion in revenue in December 2025, a historic milestone he attributed to improved services, enhanced passenger confidence, and significantly better facilities.
He informed the attentive audience that 70 railway stations have been fully digitized, with Wi-Fi now available at stations and on premier trains, marking a leap toward modernized travel.
"Additionally, around 7.0 million people are utilizing POS and internet services in trains and stations, and all trains are expected to be equipped with Wi-Fi by June 30," he revealed, outlining the rapid digital transformation underway.
Infrastructure and International Expansion
Abbasi detailed that cleanliness and upgrades have been prioritized, with Rawalpindi Railway Station already modernized as a "smart station," setting a benchmark for others.
In a groundbreaking announcement, the minister revealed ambitious plans to export railway coaches and wagons to five countries, including Chile, Argentina, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, reflecting Pakistan's robust manufacturing capabilities on the global stage and boosting economic prospects.
He further announced that the Hazara Express will commence operations from Havelian by December this year, enhancing regional connectivity. Abbasi noted that no new broad-gauge track had been laid since 1886, but new projects are now vigorously underway, including tracks from Karachi to Rohri and beyond, to significantly improve national rail networks.
"Efforts are also advancing to link Pakistan Railways with Central Asian Republics (CARs), including a nearly 140 km project from Chaman to connect with Kazakhstan, expected to be completed by the end of this year," he shared, highlighting strategic developments to forge international links.
Tributes and Governance Praise
Minister Abbasi paid heartfelt tribute to Pakistan's Armed Forces, describing them as the true saviors of the nation from seas and air to glaciers and land. He credited them for earning global respect through their immense sacrifices in defeating formidable enemies, particularly at the Eastern border.
He also praised Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz for transformative initiatives such as e-buses, metro buses, and sewage improvements in the city, asserting that the governance landscape has completely changed in Punjab under her leadership.
Call to Action for Youth and Educators
The minister reaffirmed his deep respect for teachers, calling them pivotal in shaping future generations and the backbone of educational progress.
He urged students to prioritize hard work, learn from successful individuals, and contribute actively to national progress, calling on the youth to remain dedicated and play their integral part in building a prosperous and resilient Pakistan.
In a concluding announcement, Abbasi revealed that the university's long-awaited work on the auditorium and gymnasium will be initiated soon, promising enhanced facilities for the academic community.
Ceremony Proceedings
Earlier, the university's vice chancellor, Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman, during his welcoming address, shed light on the institution's notable achievements in research and academic fronts, emphasizing its commitment to excellence.
Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, Barrister Danyal Chaudhary, was also present on the occasion, adding to the significance of the event.
Later, Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi, the Parliamentary Secretary Barrister Danyal Chaudhary, and VC Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman distributed the laptops among the deserving students, marking a moment of celebration and encouragement for academic merit.
