Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved Rs62 billion for the ‘Apni Chhat Apna Ghar’ programme, setting a target to provide loans to 40,000 individuals by May.
Chairing a special cabinet meeting, CM Maryam directed that the loan disbursement process be expedited.
She also instructed officials to review the proposal to increase loan amounts from Rs1.5 million to Rs2 million. During the briefing, it was revealed that 5,000 residents have already availed loans under the programme, and over 4,200 houses are nearing completion.
The initiative, in collaboration with the Ravi Urban Development Authority and the Housing and Urban Development Department, also aims to provide ready-made homes to underprivileged families.
Maryam emphasised that owning a home is a fundamental right, stating, “I want every homeless individual to have a roof over their head.” Yesterday, CM launched the Dhi Rani Programme by attending a mass wedding ceremony of 51 couples in Lahore.
She said on the occasion, “A record 1,500 couples are getting married in a day across the province.” She added, “A budget of Rs1 billion has been allocated for the programme.”
She highlighted that 3,000 weddings would be hosted in the first phase. All couples will be presented gifts of furniture and other essential items besides Rs100,000.
The chief minister also launched the Dhi Rani Card. The couples will be able to receive the amount through the card.
The newlyweds included five Christian brides and grooms.
The chief minister congratulated all the newlywed couples and gave them gifts of mattresses, cooking utensils, dinner sets and other essential items.
Maulana Dr Mufti Muhammad Ramzan Sialvi and Lahore Bishop Nadeem Kamran participated in the ceremony, while the social welfare department hosted a lunch.
