Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a Rs2 billion package aimed at empowering 11,000 destitute rural women in 12 districts of South Punjab by providing dignified employment opportunities and fostering their economic independence.
As part of the initiative, rural women will receive cows and buffaloes free of cost, enabling them to raise livestock and generate a sustainable income for their families. The program has been launched in districts including Multan, Khanewal, Lodhran, Vehari, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, and Kot Addu.
“These women will now have the opportunity to achieve dignified employment through livestock rearing,” said the chief minister.
Additionally, 80,000 cattle farmers across Punjab will benefit from interest-free loans of Rs27,000 per animal, provided in easy installments. Using Livestock Cards, farmers can purchase essential items such as Vanda (specialized animal feed), mineral mixtures, and silage from registered dealers.
The initiative also aims to prepare 400,000 cattle heads for meat export, contributing significantly to the region’s economic growth. A cattle identity traceability system will be implemented to improve livestock management, and a dedicated helpline and online registration facilities are already operational.
Farmers will also receive free services under the project, including artificial insemination, quality testing of Vanda and silage, and other support measures.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif assured full government backing for livestock farmers, emphasizing that the program would enhance milk and meat production to meet local demand and boost exports.