The Punjab government’s Apni Chhat Apna Ghar programme is a historic initiative aimed at providing affordable housing to 100,000 families across the province. This programme, approved by the Punjab cabinet under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is part of a broader vision to reduce homelessness and improve living standards for the financially vulnerable.
During the 15th provincial cabinet meeting, several significant decisions were taken, including details on how the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar programme (ACAG) will be implemented and the approval of a new revolving fund for housing loans. Let’s dive into the additional details and key updates.
Key Features of Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Programme
- Target: The programme aims to build 100,000 houses or apartments for deserving families across Punjab.
- Loan Scheme: The provincial cabinet approved the first-ever housing loan that can be granted based on ownership of a plot and a copy of the borrower’s CNIC.
- Loan Amount: Borrowers can receive loans up to PKR 1.5 million.
- Repayment: Monthly installments of PKR 14,000, repayable over nine years.
- Revolving Fund: No extra charges will be imposed on the public, and the loan scheme has been converted into a revolving fund to simplify the process.
- 500,000 Houses in 5 Years: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced the goal of building 500,000 homes in five years.
Simplified Scrutiny and Easy Access to Loans
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized the need to make the loan application process simple and accessible. She instructed that the scrutiny of social, economic, and income details for obtaining a housing loan should be relaxed to create ease for the public. Additionally, ministers were directed to personally oversee the first installment payments to ensure transparency.
Rural, Urban, and Major City Plans
| Programme Name | Apni Chhat Apna Ghar |
|---|---|
| Target | 100,000 affordable houses or apartments |
| Loan Amount | PKR 1.5 million |
| Repayment | PKR 14,000 monthly for 9 years |
| Goal | Build 500,000 homes in 5 years |
| Rural Area Housing | Houses up to 10 marlas |
| Urban Area Housing | Houses up to 5 marlas |
| Major City Housing | Four-story flats via lottery |
| Private Housing Schemes Subsidy | Up to PKR 1 million per house |
Government Green Tractor Programme
As part of the cabinet meeting, the government also approved the Green Tractor Programme, which will distribute 9,500 tractors to small landowners. A subsidy of PKR 1 million per tractor will be provided to landowners who own up to 50 acres of land. The programme will be launched on September 20th, with the balloting process scheduled for October 20th.
Housing for Financially Vulnerable Groups
One of the primary goals of the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar programme is to offer affordable housing to financially vulnerable individuals and families. The government, with support from Dr. Amjad Saqib, plans to provide housing subsidies and encourage the construction of eco-friendly and sustainable homes. This project is also expected to create millions of employment opportunities, boosting the local economy.
How much loan can I get through this ACAG programme in Punjab?
Eligible borrowers can receive loans of up to PKR 1.5 million to build houses.
What is the Green Tractor Programme in Punjab?
The Green Tractor Programme will provide 9,500 tractors to small landowners, with a subsidy of PKR 1 million per tractor for those owning up to 50 acres of land.
Conclusion
The Apni Chhat Apna Ghar programme is a groundbreaking initiative that reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to providing affordable housing for financially vulnerable families. With Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif at the helm, the programme aims to build 500,000 homes over the next five years, offering interest-free loans with easy repayment terms. The inclusion of private housing schemes, subsidies, and simplified loan processes further ensures that more people can benefit from this initiative.