Maryam Nawaz Sharif Launches 15 Lakh Interest-Free Housing Loans. In a landmark initiative aimed at supporting low-income families in Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the Apna Chhat Apna Ghar Housing Scheme, providing 15 lakh interest-free housing loans across the province. This ambitious project seeks to help homeless families and renters build their own homes, marking a significant step towards improving housing accessibility for the underprivileged population.
Apna Chhat Apna Ghar Housing Scheme
The Apna Chhat Apna Ghar Scheme is designed to assist families without homes or those currently living as tenants to construct their own houses. Through this scheme, each eligible family can receive a loan of up to Rs. 15 lakh. The program is structured to be completely interest-free, making it highly accessible to low-income households in both urban and rural Punjab.
- Urban Areas: Loans up to Rs. 15 lakh can be used to build a house on a 5-marla plot.
- Rural Areas: Families living in villages can use the same loan amount to construct a house on a 10-marla plot.
The government has emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader vision to ensure that every family in Punjab has the security of a home.
Loan Repayment Structure: How the Interest-Free Model Works
One of the most appealing aspects of this housing scheme is its interest-free model. Families availing this loan will have a repayment period of seven years, with monthly installments of Rs. 14,000. Importantly, the scheme offers a three-month grace period at the start, during which no payments are required.
This approach reduces financial pressure on the beneficiaries, making it easier for them to start constructing their homes without worrying about immediate repayments.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif stated in her press conference that it has always been her dream to provide homes to underprivileged families in Punjab. She emphasized that housing is a basic necessity, and every citizen deserves the dignity of owning their own house.
First Phase of the Scheme
In the initial rollout of the Apna Chhat Apna Ghar Scheme, 70,000 families will benefit from the program. Priority will be given to families registered in the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) with a PMT score below 60, ensuring that the most deserving households are supported first.
The scheme is expected to significantly alleviate housing challenges for thousands of low-income families, enabling them to achieve long-term stability.
How to Apply for the Housing Loan
The registration and application process for the Apna Chhat Apna Ghar scheme has been simplified through online portals, allowing applicants to apply from home. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Online Registration
- Visit the official government portal: https://acag.punjab.gov.pk
- Click on the “Register” option for first-time applicants
- Provide your mobile number, CNIC (ID card) number, email address, and password
- Complete the initial registration
Step 2: Filling Personal Details
- Enter your full name, father’s name, CNIC numbers, and gender
- Provide contact details, including mobile number and email
- Select your division, district, tehsil, and city
- Set a secure password for your account
Step 3: Document Submission
- Upload the required documents, such as CNIC, proof of land ownership, and any other relevant certificates
- Click Save to finalize your registration
- Upon approval, funds will be disbursed to the applicant for constructing their house
This online system ensures that all eligible families, even those living in remote areas, can access the scheme easily without physically visiting government offices.
Eligibility Criteria for the Interest-Free Loan
To qualify for the Apna Chhat Apna Ghar scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- The applicant must be the head of the family, verified through NADRA records.
- Must possess a valid CNIC.
- Must be a resident of Punjab.
- In urban areas, the applicant should own a 5-marla plot or less.
- In rural areas, the applicant should own a 10-marla plot or less.
- Must not have any criminal record, including anti-state or anti-social activities.
- Must not hold loans from other financial institutions or banks.
- Must be registered in the NSER survey with a PMT score below 60.
- Submit the online application within the designated timeframe.
These criteria ensure that the scheme benefits genuine low-income families who need financial assistance the most.
Benefits of the Apna Chhat Apna Ghar Scheme
The scheme provides numerous advantages for the residents of Punjab:
- Affordable Housing: Low-income families can build homes with a manageable repayment plan.
- Interest-Free Loans: No additional burden of interest allows families to invest in their future securely.
- Urban and Rural Coverage: Both city dwellers and villagers can benefit according to their land size.
- Easy Online Registration: Applicants can apply from the comfort of their homes, reducing paperwork and travel.
- Government Support: The initiative reflects strong government commitment to improving housing and living standards.
By addressing both urban and rural housing needs, the scheme is expected to create a lasting impact on the province’s socio-economic development.
Key Points About the Scheme
- Loan Amount: Up to Rs. 15 lakh
- Repayment Duration: 7 years
- Monthly Installment: Rs. 14,000
- First Payment: Grace period of 3 months
- Target Beneficiaries: Poor and homeless families, registered with NSER
These points highlight the accessibility and practicality of the scheme for eligible families across Punjab.
Registration Made Simple
The Punjab government has streamlined the registration process to maximize participation. Families can:
- Complete the initial registration online.
- Upload documents electronically.
- Track the status of their loan application.
- Receive funds directly for construction purposes.
The online system ensures transparency, accountability, and convenience, making it easier for deserving families to benefit from the scheme.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s Vision
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized that housing is a fundamental human right. Through the Apna Chhat Apna Ghar scheme, she aims to:
- Reduce homelessness in Punjab
- Enable financial independence for low-income families
- Encourage self-reliance by helping people build and own homes
Her vision is to ensure that every citizen in Punjab enjoys security and dignity through homeownership.
Who Can Benefit Most
The scheme is specifically designed for families:
- Living as tenants or without homes
- Facing financial challenges in building their own house
- Registered under the NSER survey with low-income status
- Residing in Punjab, whether in urban or rural areas
It targets genuine beneficiaries, ensuring that the most deserving families are provided with financial assistance to improve their living standards.
Conclusion
The Apna Chhat Apna Ghar Scheme launched by Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif provides an excellent opportunity for low-income families in Punjab to secure interest-free loans of up to Rs. 15 lakh. By offering financial support, simplifying registration, and focusing on genuine beneficiaries, this initiative is set to transform housing conditions and empower families across the province.
