CM wants implementation of youth livelihood schemes

PESHAWAR: Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur on Friday called for immediate finalisation and implementation of Ehsaas Naujwan Rozgar, Ehsaas Hunar and Ehsaas Rozgar Programmes to address unemployment in the province.

He issued the directive at a joint meeting of the relevant departments at the Chief Minister’s House here, said a handout.Provincial cabinet members Muzzammil Aslam, Syed Fakhr Jahan, Amjad Ali, Abdul Karim Tordher, Mushal Azam and other officials attended the meeting.

To cater to the housing needs of low-income households in the province and raise their socio-economic conditions, the preparation for the “Ehsas Apna Ghar Programme” was also reviewed in the meeting.

Under “Ehsas Apna Ghar Programme” interest-free loans of up to 1.5 million rupees would be offered to low-income people for the construction of new houses, renovation and improvement of existing houses or owning an apartment.

The chief minister highlighted the importance of a realistic and equitable approach to these initiatives.He said each district should receive its fair share based on population and merit.

The chief minister stressed the need for transparency in the implementation process to ensure that the benefits of these programmes reach the youth, particularly those in remote and underserved areas.

The meeting discussed the pilot project under the Ehsaas Naujawan Rozgar Scheme, which would offer soft loans up to Rs10 million.These loans are intended for individuals with the skills and viable plans to start their own businesses.

Similarly, the Ehsaas Rozgar Scheme would provide interest-free loans of up to Rs200, 000 rupees to those wishing to start or expand small-scale businesses, with support from welfare organizations.

Moreover, under the Ehsaas Hunar Programme, graduates and diploma/certificate holders from technical and vocational educational institutions would be eligible for interest-free loans of up to Rs5 million, to establish their own businesses.