MODEL BAZAARS REDEFINED: PUNJAB’S VISIONARY STEP TO AUTHORITY STATUS FOR PUBLIC WELFARE

Abstract

The Punjab Model Bazaars project presents an astonishing example of government interventions formulated to better the lives of everyday citizens. Amid the rising inflation and economic difficulties, the Model Bazaars have appeared as a symbol of affordability, stability and social equity, offering essential goods at prices that are prominently lower than the market rates. The recent decision to transform the Punjab Model Bazaar Management Company (PMBMC) to an authority model provides a remarkable shift in the works of this influential initiative, reinforcing its position as one of the most significant public welfare projects in Pakistan. The qualitative method is employed in the research process using the techniques of interviews, surveys and focus groups to attain a better insight. The findings reveal the transition of Model Bazaars to authority model has provided several benefits like improved governance, public trust, financial independence, enhanced service delivery and sustainable framework contributing to socio-economic development in Punjab.