SARGODHA:For the first time in Pakistan’s history, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched the “Asaan Rozgar Scheme” under which interest-free loans worth Rs 18 billion have been allocated for Sargodha.
This was announced by Khawaja Imran, Director P&D Lahore, during his visit to the Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), where he addressed members of the executive committee and chamber representatives on Wednesday.
Khawaja Imran stated that the loans will be disbursed through the Bank of Punjab, offering equal opportunities to small and medium-scale entrepreneurs. Under the scheme, export-oriented businesses can receive up to Rs 50 million, while other business sectors can access loans of up to Rs 30 million.
He said that the applicants can apply online through the “Asaan Rozgar Scheme” portal. Loans will be available to residents of Punjab aged between 25 and 55 years, with no outstanding government dues. The repayment period is five years, including a grace period of three to six months. New business starters are also encouraged to apply, as 50 percent of the total funds are reserved for startup ventures.
He added that the Punjab Government’s focus is to promote entrepreneurship, create new businesses, and strengthen economic activity across the province, with SCCI playing an active role in ensuring the scheme’s success.
During the event, Ghulam Hassan Goga, Chairman of the SCCI Standing Committee on SMEs, hailed the initiative as a historic milestone that will empower small and medium enterprises, enhance productivity, and contribute to Pakistan’s GDP growth.
Khawaja Yasir Qayyum, President of SCCI, appreciated the Punjab Government for launching the business-friendly initiative and proposed the establishment of a help desk within the Bank of Punjab to guide chamber members through the loan process. He further recommended that the Bank should organize awareness sessions at the SCCI office for members’ convenience.
Addressing the gathering, Chaudhry Amir Atta Bajwa pointed out procedural hurdles that applicants often face, urging the authorities to remove unnecessary objections raised by banks. He cited cases where loan requests were rejected over property documentation, even when ownership was verifiable through registry of heirs.
The ceremony was attended by Zeeshan Yousaf Senior Vice President, Bank of Punjab, Rehana (Director C&M), Abdul Rehman Regional Director, Punjab Industries Corporation Sargodha, and Hamza Tariq Representative, State Bank of Pakistan.
At the end, souvenir shields were presented to the distinguished guests on behalf of the SCCI.
