In 2025, the Punjab government, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, introduced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming the lives of thousands of low-income families across the province. The “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” (My Roof, My Home) housing scheme was launched to address the growing issue of housing insecurity among marginalized communities. With rising inflation, limited access to bank loans, and high property prices, owning a home has long been a distant dream for many in Pakistan. This initiative is now making that dream a reality.
A New Chapter in Affordable Housing
The “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” scheme is a strategic step toward providing secure, dignified, and affordable housing to the underprivileged. It offers interest-free loans to eligible families, allowing them to construct their houses on plots they already own. This program empowers families with homeownership and helps uplift entire communities by improving living conditions and infrastructure.
Key Features of the Scheme
The scheme is designed with inclusivity and practicality in mind. Below are the main highlights:
- Loan Amount: Each eligible family can receive up to Rs. 1.5 million in interest-free loans for home construction.
- Repayment Period: Loans must be repaid within seven years, with a three-month grace period before repayments begin.
- Monthly Installments: To ensure affordability, repayments are structured to not exceed Rs. 14,000 per month.
- No Interest: One of the most appealing features is that the loans are entirely interest-free, relieving families from the financial burden of high-interest charges.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme targets the most deserving segments of society. If someone wants to apply, they must meet the following requirements:
- Prove that you are from Punjab and that you live there.
- You can own land ranging from 1 to 5 marlas in urban areas and up to 10 marlas in rural areas.
- Have less than Rs. 50,000 in monthly household income.
- Be registered in the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) with a poverty score of 60 or below.
- Do not lose your computerized national identity card (CNIC).
Have no history of criminal activity or loan defaults. - You cannot possess any other residential property or house in Pakistan.
The government further emphasizes its commitment to supporting the most vulnerable citizens by giving special preference to widows, persons with disabilities, orphans, and daily wage workers.
Application Process
To minimize barriers, we have made applying for the scheme simple and accessible.
- Electronic Application: Those who want to apply can do so through the official website, acag.punjab.gov.pk.
- Individuals can also apply in person by visiting their nearest Deputy Commissioner (DC) office, which has established dedicated desks to assist with the process.
- Helpline Assistance: For queries or support, a toll-free helpline (0800-09100) is available, ensuring help is just a call away.
- The entire application process is free of charge, and applicants are advised not to pay any intermediaries or agents.
- Implementation and Progress So Far
As of early 2025, the scheme has shown remarkable progress: - Over 25,000 families have already received loans, amounting to Rs. 26.97 billion disbursed.
- The state of Punjab is building almost 34,000 homes right now.
More than 2,000 homes have already been completed and handed over to beneficiaries. - The Punjab government aims to construct 100,000 homes in the next four and a half years under this initiative.
- This rapid pace of implementation highlights the government’s dedication to making a real impact on the ground.
Monitoring and Transparency
Transparency is a cornerstone of this housing initiative. To ensure fair distribution and accountability:
- An eight-member district-level oversight committee has been formed in each district.
- All loan approvals and allotments are monitored and documented.
- A public complaint system is in place via complaints.punjab.gov.pk, where applicants can report concerns.
- This level of oversight ensures that the scheme benefits only those who truly deserve it and prevents misuse of public funds.
Socio-Economic Impact
The “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” scheme goes beyond just housing—it is a tool for social and economic transformation.
- Home Ownership: Families who were previously living in rented homes or informal settlements now have a permanent place to live.
- Job Creation: The construction activity stimulated by this program is expected to create over 500,000 jobs in the labor and construction sectors.
- Community Development: With better housing comes improved sanitation, security, and educational access, all of which contribute to healthier and more prosperous communities.
A Step Toward an Inclusive Future
This housing loan scheme reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to inclusive development. By addressing a basic human need—shelter—the initiative not only reduces poverty but also enhances the dignity and quality of life for countless citizens.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has stated that every citizen is entitled to safe and affordable housing, and this program is a concrete step toward realizing that vision.
Final Thoughts
People in Punjab who are poor can be hopeful because of the “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” home loan program. It exemplifies how well-planned, inclusive policies can uplift communities, reduce inequality, and pave the way for a stronger, more equitable society. As this initiative continues to expand, thousands more families will benefit, moving closer to the dream of owning a home—a dream that is now within reach.
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