What Are the Maryam Nawaz Loan Schemes?
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched three game-changing programs to help ordinary Pakistanis:
- Punjab Easy Business Loans (Rs 1-30 million)
- Karobar Card Scheme (Up to Rs 1 million)
- Apna Ghar Apni Chhat (Rs 1.5 million housing loans)
Why this matters: Over 50,000 families could benefit in 2024, with Rs 132 billion allocated – the biggest financial aid package in Punjab’s history.
1. Punjab Easy Business Loan: Start or Grow Your SME
Key Features
- ✅ Interest-free loans from Rs 1 lakh to 3 crore
- ✅ 5-year repayment with 3-month grace period
- ✅ Special focus on women & disabled entrepreneurs
Who Can Apply?
- Shop owners, small factory operators, home-based businesses
- Age 21-57 years (25-55 for some categories)
- Must be tax filer with clean credit history
Real-life example: A Lahore tailor used Rs 5 lakh to buy 10 new sewing machines, doubling his production.
2. Karobar Card Scheme: Instant Funds for Daily Needs
| Feature | Details |
| Loan Amount | Up to Rs 1 million |
| Cash Withdrawal | 25% of total limit |
| Repayment | 3 years (3-month break first) |
Best for:
✔️ Buying stock quickly
✔️ Paying electricity bills
✔️ Emergency repairs
Pro tip: Use the card at partnered vendors to get 5% discounts on raw materials.
3. Apna Ghar Scheme: Build Your Dream Home
56% of Punjabis live in rented homes. This scheme helps:
- Build new 1-2 room houses
- Expand existing homes
- Complete unfinished construction
Loan perks:
- 7-year repayment
- No hidden charges
- Free technical design help
Success story: A Faisalabad factory worker built 2-room house for Rs 9 lakh – pays Rs 12,500/month.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Choose Your Scheme
- Business loans: akf.punjab.gov.pk
- Karobar Card: akc.punjab.gov.pk
- Housing: Punjab IT Board portal
- Prepare Documents
- CNIC copy
- 6-month bank statements
- Business plan (for loans >Rs 5 lakh)
- Avoid These 3 Mistakes
⚠️ Applying without tax documents
⚠️ Underestimating repayment capacity
⚠️ Sharing OTPs with unknown callers
Helpline: Dial 1786 (8 AM-8 PM daily)
Why These Schemes Matter for Punjab’s Economy
- Job Creation: 1 new business = 3-5 jobs created
- Women Empowerment: 40% loans reserved for female applicants
- Housing Boom: 15,000+ new homes expected by 2025
Expert view: “This could increase Punjab’s GDP by 2-3% if fully utilized,” says economist Dr. Ali Raza.
FAQs: Quick Answers to Top Questions
Q1. Can government employees apply?
Yes, if they have side business with proper registration.
Q2. What if I miss an installment?
Contact helpline immediately – 15-day grace period available.
Q3. How long for approval?
7-15 working days if documents are complete.
Final Checklist Before Applying
☑️ Compare all 3 schemes
☑️ Calculate monthly repayment amount
☑️ Visit nearest Punjab Bank branch for advice
