Punjab Launches Free Livestock Program to Empower Rural Women

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched the Free Livestock Programme, a new initiative designed to help rural women build sustainable livelihoods and improve household incomes.

The first phase of the program has begun across 13 districts of Punjab, focusing on women from economically vulnerable communities.

The initiative is part of the provincial government's broader efforts to reduce poverty, create self-employment opportunities, and strengthen rural economies through practical welfare measures that promote long-term financial stability.

Under the program, widowed and divorced rural women up to the age of 55 are eligible to receive free livestock, enabling them to generate a stable source of income through dairy and livestock farming. The initiative aims to support women in becoming financially independent while improving their families' quality of life.

Applicants must have their marital status verified by the Punjab Social Protection Authority (PSPA). Women who have already received livestock through a government scheme within the last five years are not eligible under the current program.

To make the application process accessible, the Punjab government has established Chief Minister Facilitation Desks at veterinary hospitals and animal health centers across the participating districts.

These centers will assist eligible women with registration and provide guidance throughout the application process.

Applicants can also apply online through the official portal, making it easier for women to access the program without unnecessary delays. The initiative combines digital services with on-ground support to maximize outreach across rural communities.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched the Free Livestock Programme, a new initiative designed to help rural women build sustainable livelihoods and improve household incomes.

The first phase of the program has begun across 13 districts of Punjab, focusing on women from economically vulnerable communities.

The initiative is part of the provincial government's broader efforts to reduce poverty, create self-employment opportunities, and strengthen rural economies through practical welfare measures that promote long-term financial stability.

Under the program, widowed and divorced rural women up to the age of 55 are eligible to receive free livestock, enabling them to generate a stable source of income through dairy and livestock farming. The initiative aims to support women in becoming financially independent while improving their families' quality of life.

Applicants must have their marital status verified by the Punjab Social Protection Authority (PSPA). Women who have already received livestock through a government scheme within the last five years are not eligible under the current program.

To make the application process accessible, the Punjab government has established Chief Minister Facilitation Desks at veterinary hospitals and animal health centers across the participating districts.

These centers will assist eligible women with registration and provide guidance throughout the application process.

Applicants can also apply online through the official portal, making it easier for women to access the program without unnecessary delays. The initiative combines digital services with on-ground support to maximize outreach across rural communities.