The Punjab government has taken significant financial steps to address housing needs and provide relief to flood-affected communities. On Friday, the provincial administration released a substantial sum of fifteen billion rupees for two critical initiatives.
Major Funds for Housing and Disaster Recovery
The Finance Department has confirmed the online transfer of Rs. 10 billion to support the "Apni Chhat Apna Ghar" housing scheme. Simultaneously, Rs. 5 billion has been allocated to the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) for the immediate rehabilitation of communities devastated by recent floods. This direct funding is intended to accelerate relief efforts and support long-term recovery for those impacted by the natural disasters.
Apni Chhat Apna Ghar: A Dream for Families
Launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the "Apni Chhat Apna Ghar" initiative is a flagship housing program. It is specifically designed to provide secure and affordable homes for low-income and middle-class families across Punjab. The scheme operates by offering interest-free loans and ensuring a transparent distribution process. This approach aims to make the dream of home ownership a reality for thousands of deserving families, directly tackling the province's housing shortage.
Expansion of the Dhee Rani Programme
In a separate but related development, the Punjab government has decided to significantly expand the Dhee Rani welfare programme. The initiative's scope has been increased from 3,000 to 5,000 marriages. Furthermore, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif approved doubling the cash grant for each beneficiary from one lakh to two lakh rupees.
The provincial finance department has allocated Rs. 1.7 billion for the Dhee Rani programme for the financial year 2025-26, a decision ratified by the Project Steering Committee. Key financial details of the expansion include:
- Rs. 50 million required for holding Dhee Rani ceremonies in all 36 districts of Punjab.
- Rs. 8 million will be spent on Bank of Punjab (BOP) cards for the 5,000 marriages covered in the 2025-26 financial years.
- Outstanding bills related to the program's media campaign will be settled in the current financial year, with the Finance Department ordering future advertising to be conducted through the DGPR.
The Finance Department has rejected a proposal to seek an additional Rs. 223 million, directing that the Dhee Rani programme be completed within the already approved budget of Rs. 1.7 billion.
A Dual Focus on Development and Welfare
These financial allocations underscore the provincial government's dual focus on infrastructural development and social welfare. The substantial investment in housing and flood rehabilitation addresses urgent, tangible needs arising from both systemic challenges and natural calamities. Concurrently, the enhancement of the Dhee Rani programme reflects a commitment to supporting social traditions and providing direct financial assistance to families during important life events. Together, these moves represent a concerted effort to foster economic stability and social support for the people of Punjab.
