Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has earmarked a Rs 10 million reward for Nurse Razia Noreen.
In a televised briefing on Tuesday, the prime minister announced that the frontline nurse who pulled a newborn to safety during the blaze at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences’ (PIMS) neonatal ward will receive the prestigious Sitara‑e‑Khidmat, along with a cash prize of one crore rupees. The fire, which erupted late Monday night, threatened the intensive care unit where dozens of infants were being treated, but Razia’s swift actions prevented a tragic loss of life.
The award, one of the nation’s highest civilian honours, recognises individuals who demonstrate extraordinary service to the state. By pairing it with a substantial monetary reward, the government aims to signal its commitment to recognising the sacrifices of health‑care workers, especially in a country where the public sector faces chronic staffing shortages and limited resources. Health officials said the incident has already prompted a review of emergency protocols across major hospitals.
Medical authorities at PIMS praised Razia’s composure, noting that her decision to evacuate the baby amidst thick smoke and alarms required both professional training and personal courage. “Her quick thinking exemplifies the dedication of our nurses, who often operate under challenging conditions,” said Dr. Amjad Khan, director of the hospital’s neonatal department. The incident has reignited discussions on upgrading fire safety measures and providing regular disaster‑response drills for medical staff.
The prime minister’s announcement is being welcomed by professional bodies such as the Pakistan Nursing Council, which sees the reward as a morale boost for a workforce that has been on the front lines of the COVID‑19 pandemic and subsequent health crises. By publicly honouring Razia, the administration hopes to foster a culture where exemplary service is celebrated, encouraging younger professionals to join and remain in the health sector.
As the nation reflects on the narrow escape of a vulnerable infant, the Rs 10 million reward underscores a broader governmental message: frontline caregivers will not only be protected but also duly recognised for the lives they save in moments of crisis.