The Punjab government has approved an allocation of Rs310 million for the “She Threads” initiative, a program designed to strengthen the economic independence and vocational capabilities of women living in rural areas through specialized training in the textile industry. The program is open to women aged 18 to 45 from across rural Punjab who have completed at least middle-level education.
Program Details and Benefits
Participants will receive a monthly stipend of Rs15,000 during the training period, along with transportation assistance. Under the initiative, women are trained in 10 textile-related fields, creating opportunities for long-term financial stability. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has also introduced USSD codes for checking and managing mobile subscriptions.
Training Locations and Enrollment
Officials said training courses are currently being offered in Lahore, Sialkot, Sheikhupura, and Faisalabad. Over the last two years, approximately 2,500 women have completed the program successfully, while 773 graduates secured employment immediately after finishing their training. According to authorities, 1,150 women are currently enrolled in the She Threads program, and another 1,350 women are expected to join next year.
Available Courses
The courses available under the initiative include industrial stitching machine operation, fabric quality inspection, fabric cutting, apparel planning and merchandising, apparel supervision, pattern making and cutting, pattern drafting and grading, quality control, garment finishing, packing, and garment washing.
Government Commitment
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the government is committed to helping women achieve financial independence and greater empowerment. She noted that skilled women can become an important asset for the country and emphasized that the textile sector offers significant employment opportunities for women who receive professional training. The National Economic Council (NEC) also reviewed a Rs4.7 trillion development plan for FY2026-27.
