Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a historic achievement as the provincial government disbursed Rs61 billion in loans to more than 107,000 individuals within just three months. This unprecedented financial support has helped launch around 58,000 new businesses, marking a significant boost to Punjab’s economy.
During a special briefing on the Easy Business Finance and Easy Business Card schemes in Lahore, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of completing the pending loan applications under the ‘Aasan Karobar Finance’ and ‘Karobar Card’ programs promptly.
Highlighting the growing role of women entrepreneurs, Maryam Nawaz revealed that 6,753 women have received loans totaling Rs3.4 billion to start their own businesses for the first time in Punjab’s history.
She also directed authorities to introduce Easy Business Card services via WhatsApp and requested a strategic plan to support the export and manufacturing sectors. The CM stressed that these programs must continue without interruption to sustain momentum.
Punjab Small Industries Corporation (PSIC) MD Sara Umar reported that 3,010 individuals secured Rs18 billion under the Easy Business Finance scheme, while over 104,000 people accessed Rs43 billion through the Easy Business Card initiative. Thousands of applications remain under review, with many already approved and funded.
Loans have been granted across various sectors, including transportation, trading, professional services, agriculture, dairy, food, beautification, and more. Notably, 61,996 borrowers obtained Rs26.13 billion for services through the Aasan Karobar card, while trading and agriculture small businesses also received substantial support.
This massive push in business financing is expected to drive economic growth and empower entrepreneurs throughout Punjab.