In 2024, the Punjab Government launched a series of transformative initiatives aimed at strengthening key sectors and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. These efforts are centered on providing affordable housing, empowering women entrepreneurs, and supporting students with financial aid. The government is also taking significant steps to support the agricultural sector through subsidies and financial assistance to farmers, while promoting renewable energy by installing solar panels in households.
Now, let’s dive into the details of these initiatives to understand how each one is set to impact the lives of Punjab’s citizens.
1- Roshan Gharana Scheme
The Roshan Gharana Scheme was announced on March 26, 2024. To help residents cope with rising electricity bills, the Punjab government has launched this initiative to provide free solar systems. Solar panels will be distributed based on electricity consumption: users with low consumption (50 units or less) receive a 500-watt panel, while higher consumers (up to 500 units) are eligible for panels up to 2200 watts. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources as grid electricity prices soar. For users consuming less than 200 units, the solar panels are free, while those in higher slabs (200-500 units) can opt for interest-free instalment plans.
2- Himmat Card
The Himmat Card was introduced in April 2024 to support persons with disabilities (PWDs) by providing them with financial aid through ATM cards. The disbursement of funds through the Himmat Card is set to commence by September 15, 2024. Launched in collaboration with the Bank of Punjab, this program reflects the government’s dedication to supporting its most vulnerable citizens. Under the initiative, 65,000 PWDs across the province will receive ATM cards that provide a quarterly stipend of PKR 10,500.
The Himmat Card offers financial aid and access to additional government services for eligible PWDs. To qualify, individuals must be certified as PWDs by Social Welfare Punjab, classified as not fit to work, and not employed in the government or private sectors. This initiative marks a significant step in the Punjab government’s efforts to uplift and support those in need.
3- Kisan Card
The Kisan Card initiative was launched in May 2024. The Punjab Chief Minister’s Kisan Card registration has reached 725,000 farmers, with a goal of reaching 1 million by August 31st. The initiative includes ongoing SMS campaigns to raise awareness and offers a 25% cash withdrawal facility under consideration. Additionally, applications for the Punjab Green Tractor Scheme and solar power subsidies for tube-wells will soon be available, and the selection process for 1,000 agricultural graduates under the CM’s Punjab Internship Program has been completed.
4- Maryam Ki Dastak
The Maryam Ki Dastak program was launched on June 5, 2024. This initiative focuses on empowering women entrepreneurs by providing financial assistance, training, and resources. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has expanded the services offered through the “Maryam Ki Dastak” mobile application to enhance citizen access to essential government services. By August 2024, the program will offer 65 services across all divisions in the province, including police, revenue, and municipal functions. Citizens can access these services via the app, web portal, call center, or by scheduling appointments with representatives. This initiative enables residents to obtain services such as domicile issuance, e-stamping, and certificates for birth, death, and marriage, all from the comfort of their homes.
5- Apni Chhat Apna Ghar
The Apni Chhat Apna Ghar initiative was officially launched on August 14, 2024. The program spearheaded by the Chief Minister of Punjab, aims to provide 100,000 affordable housing units to eligible residents across the province. This initiative targets low-income families living in rented or informal accommodations, offering them the opportunity to own their homes. The program will be executed over four and a half years through three distinct models:
- State Land Development: 10,000 housing units will be constructed on state land, with developers responsible for infrastructure and housing construction under PHATA’s oversight.
- Affordable Private Housing Schemes: 20,000 low-cost houses will be developed within private housing schemes, with at least 20% of the residential area allocated to low-income families.
- Interest-Free Loans: Financial assistance for home construction will be provided to residents who own small plots of land in urban or rural areas.
Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria, including being the head of the family, a permanent resident of Punjab, and owning a plot of land within the stipulated limits. This program is expected to improve living conditions, reduce overcrowding, and create approximately 500,000 jobs, thereby stimulating economic growth. Applications can be submitted online through a dedicated portal, with a streamlined process designed to facilitate easy registration and application for eligible candidates.
