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The Punjab government has announced a significant expansion of its flagship housing initiative, “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar”, allowing joint families to access interest-free loans for expanding their existing homes.
Under the revised policy, joint families can now apply for easy-installment loans to add living space. The move is designed to support the traditional joint family system while addressing the province’s growing housing needs.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif described the initiative as a “golden gift” for the people of Punjab, emphasizing that the government is committed to promoting social harmony and improving housing standards across the province.
“Supporting joint families helps preserve shared living arrangements while meeting rising housing demands,” she said.
The provincial government has set an ambitious target of constructing 160,000 houses by June 2026. Families without land can receive plots along with interest-free loans under the “Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar” scheme. In the first phase, 1,534 plots will be allotted through a lottery in Jhelum, Kasur, Faisalabad, and Lodhran.
Officials reported that more than 1.88 million users have registered for the housing program, with over 1.06 million applications currently under review. So far, 67,197 houses have been completed, while 53,843 are under construction. Total loan disbursements have reached Rs164.66 billion, with a recovery rate of 99 percent.
The chief minister has also directed authorities to speed up the release of installments, increase funding, and develop policies to ensure continued support for families in the event of the primary applicant’s death.
Officials said the expansion is a significant step toward addressing Punjab’s housing shortage while aligning government support with the social and cultural values of the province.
