Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced the launch of zero-interest loans and small and medium enterprise (SME) opportunities across the province on Thursday.
During a high-profile event at the Chief Minister's Office, CM Maryam introduced the "Asaan Karobar Finance" and "Asaan Karobar Card" schemes, with senior provincial ministers, Bank of Punjab officials, and industry leaders in attendance.
The Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme offers interest-free loans ranging from Rs1 million to Rs30 million, repayable in easy instalments.
The Asaan Karobar Card provides loans between Rs500,000 and Rs1 million. Interested applicants can apply online, with further information available via helpline 1786.
Speaking at the event, CM Maryam said, "These initiatives have the potential to reshape the future of Punjab and Pakistan. We have simplified the process of starting a business like never before."
She highlighted that loans would be disbursed through the Bank of Punjab without requiring prior approvals such as NOCs, licenses, or blueprints.
The chief minister declared that these schemes are the first of their kind in Punjab’s history, offering interest-free loans of up to Rs30 million.
Moreover, subsidized land will be made available to support small businesses, promoting economic inclusivity.
The government also announced incentives for industries in export processing zones, including complimentary solar systems worth up to Rs500,000.
"These initiatives will pave new pathways for SMEs, driving Punjab toward economic prosperity," said Maryam Nawaz.
She urged young entrepreneurs to utilize these schemes to contribute to the province’s economic growth.
Additionally, CM Maryam launched the "CM Punjab Laptop Scheme" and distributed "Honhaar Scholarships" during a ceremony at GC University’s new campus in Faisalabad.
Under this scheme, 40,000 laptops will be distributed across Punjab. Scholarships worth Rs200 million were allocated to students in Faisalabad Division, including Rs17.6 million for public university students and Rs28.9 million for private university students.
During the ceremony, Maryam Nawaz affirmed the government’s commitment to education by providing students with financial assistance and resources. She also praised a special needs student, Uswa Aziz, for playing the national anthem on the flute and interacted closely with students, acknowledging their accomplishments.
One student presented Maryam with a portrait of her late mother, Kulsoom Nawaz, while another gifted her a dupatta with heartfelt slogans of appreciation.
The event also featured a historic moment as female police officers provided a guard of honour for the first time.
