Punjab Launches Free Livestock Programme for Rural Women in 13 Districts

Lahore: The Punjab government has launched a Free Livestock Programme under the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to promote economic empowerment among rural women.

In the first phase, free livestock will be distributed to eligible women in 13 districts, including Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Taunsa, Khanewal, Vehari, Lodhran, Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, Layyah, and Kot Addu.

The programme is open to widowed and divorced rural women up to 55 years of age. Applicants must have their marital status verified by the Punjab Social Protection Authority. Women who have already received livestock under any government scheme during the past five years will not be eligible.

To facilitate applications, the government has established Chief Minister Facilitation Desks at nearby veterinary hospitals and animal health centres. Eligible women can also apply through the online portal.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said empowering rural women through sustainable livestock support and financial assistance is essential for reducing poverty and improving household incomes across Punjab.