Maryam Nawaz announces Rs16.2 billion in interest-free livestock loans, free cattle for rural women and plans to expand Punjab’s meat exports.

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched the second phase of the Livestock Card programme, announcing Rs16.2 billion in interest-free loans to support livestock farmers and strengthen the province’s rural economy.

Under the programme, eligible farmers will receive interest-free loans of Rs27,000 per animal to help cover essential expenses and improve animal care and productivity.

During a briefing, officials informed the chief minister that the recovery rate for loans issued during the programme’s first phase had reached 96%. The second phase is intended to extend financial assistance to more eligible livestock owners and support the development of the livestock sector.

Officials also told the meeting that beneficiaries would be permitted to withdraw 25% of their loan amount in cash through automated teller machines (ATMs). The remaining funds will be available for designated purposes under the scheme’s applicable conditions.

The initiative forms part of the Punjab government’s efforts to improve livestock management, support agricultural productivity and create additional income opportunities for rural households. Livestock farming is an important source of livelihood for many families across the province.

Free cows and buffaloes for rural women

In a related initiative, Maryam Nawaz announced plans to provide free cows and buffaloes to rural women in Punjab.

The proposed initiative aims to help women establish or strengthen livestock-based livelihoods and generate income through animal rearing. However, details regarding eligibility, the distribution process and the implementation timeline were not provided in the information presented at the meeting.

Punjab reports growth in meat exports

The briefing also highlighted developments in Punjab’s meat export sector, with officials reporting agreements to export meat to Saudi Arabia, China, Azerbaijan and European markets.

According to figures presented during the meeting, Punjab’s meat exports increased by $96 million compared with the previous year. The government aims to expand access to international markets and strengthen the province’s livestock and meat-processing industries.

Expanding exports could create further opportunities for businesses involved in livestock production, meat processing and related supply chains, although the briefing did not specify projected export targets or the expected number of jobs.

The second phase of the Livestock Card programme is expected to provide additional financial support to eligible farmers while complementing broader efforts to improve animal care, increase production and expand the economic contribution of Punjab’s livestock sector.

The programme’s reported 96% loan recovery rate in its first phase provides a key performance indicator as the provincial government moves ahead with the expanded initiative.