The Punjab government’s flagship housing initiative, Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar, has reached a significant milestone by distributing over Rs8.5 billion in interest-free loans to more than 9,000 individuals, officials announced on Sunday.
Led by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the program achieved this remarkable feat within just a few months, setting a new benchmark for microfinance in the province.
Application and Loan Distribution Numbers
The initiative received an overwhelming response, with 400,000 applications and supporting documents submitted through the Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar portal in a short span. During Phase I of the project, 5,000 loans were issued, with many houses now nearing completion. Similarly, Phase II has seen 3,000 loans disbursed, and construction for these homes is already underway.
To ensure transparency and fairness, the applications are being verified by three independent microfinance institutions. According to the Punjab government, the program aims to meet its ambitious targets of building 100,000 houses in one year and 500,000 houses over the next five years, as per the directives of the chief minister.
How the Program Works
The project operates through the acag.punjab.gov.pk portal, where applicants can access information and apply for loans. For support, a dedicated helpline, 0800-09100, has also been set up.
Under the program, those receiving a loan of Rs1.5 million will repay only the principal amount over nine years, with affordable monthly installments of Rs14,000.
CM’s Vision for a Home for Everyone
Speaking about the initiative, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed her heartfelt commitment to eradicating homelessness in Punjab. “The state is like a mother, and a mother’s greatest concern is for her children without a roof over their heads. Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar will be the most successful housing program in Pakistan’s history,” she said.
She further emphasized that the loan distribution is based solely on merit, with no room for recommendations or favoritism. “My dream is for every person in Punjab to experience the joy of having their own home,” she added.
The chief minister also shared her personal satisfaction with the program, saying, “Seeing these houses being built under the Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar program feels as joyous as building a home for myself.”
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Wow mortgage . Another new low for this govt . Instead of creating affordable homes .
You are giving away loans .
Pakistan has a population of 250 million by now. Except for a tiny fraction, the rest are leading a miserable life. Such measures as loans for houses, free laptops, e-bikes, solar panels for a few are not the solution. These are mere dramas. A country surviving on loans should take concrete measures rather than promoting a culture of loans. The results will be visible when this government goes home.