LAHORE: The Government of Punjab has appointed Saman Rai (PAS/BS-20) as the new Secretary of the Women Development Department (WDD), where she has formally taken charge of her responsibilities, marking a significant step toward strengthening institutional efforts for women’s empowerment and gender equality in the province.
A seasoned civil servant with a strong administrative background, Saman Rai brings extensive experience in public service, governance, and policy implementation. She has previously served in key positions including Director General, Overseas Pakistanis Commission (OPC) Punjab, Director General, Population Welfare Department, and Executive Director, Punjab Arts Council (PUCAR) where she contributed to diverse sectors ranging from public service delivery to social development and cultural promotion.
Her appointment is being viewed as a positive development, particularly at a time when the province is focusing on inclusive growth and safeguarding the rights of women across all sectors.
As Secretary WDD, she will be responsible for overseeing key initiatives aimed at promoting women’s socio-economic empowerment, protection against gender-based violence, and ensuring the effective implementation of laws and policies related to women’s rights. The department also runs and expands critical support facilities such as Day Care Centers and Working Women’s Hostels, providing safe and enabling environments for working women across Punjab.
A major focus of the department remains the economic empowerment of women through various programs, including skill development initiatives. These initiatives emphasize both traditional and modern skill sets, with a growing focus on digital skills to help women participate in the evolving job market and digital economy.
Sources within the department have expressed optimism that under her leadership, ongoing projects will gain further momentum, and new policy interventions will be introduced to address emerging challenges faced by women in Punjab.
Established in 2012, Women Development Department Punjab plays a crucial role in advancing gender mainstreaming, improving access to opportunities for women, and fostering a more equitable society. Saman Rai’s appointment is expected to reinforce these efforts and contribute to meaningful progress in the province’s development agenda.