Maryam launches largest business finance schemes

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Tuesday launched the largest business finance schemes in Punjab.

“More than Rs84 billion for the Easy Business Finance Scheme and more than Rs48 billion for the Easy Business Card Scheme have been allocated. More than Rs36 billion interest-free loans will be provided under the Easy Business Finance Scheme, under which interest-free loans worth Rs1 million each to 30 million potential beneficiaries will be provided. Loans will be repaid in easy monthly installments of five years. Men, women, transgenders and special individuals, aged between 25 and 55, residing in Punjab, are eligible to apply for loan under the scheme,” she said.

She highlighted: “Being an active filer and not being a defaulter of any financial institution are prerequisites of the eligibility criteria. For the Easy Business Finance Scheme, online applications and details can be submitted on the dedicated web portal of Easy For Business Finance. One can apply at akf.punjab.gov.pk. In the Easy Business Card Scheme, interest-free loans of up to Rs1 million will be given for startups and small businesses. Under the Easy Business Card, the loan will be repaid in easy monthly installments in over three years. Men, women, transgenders and special persons residing in Punjab can apply for the Easy Business Card. Applications for Easy Business Card can be filed at akc.punjab.gov.pk. Payments can be made to the vendor on the purchase of raw materials. It will be possible to pay government fees, taxes and utility bills through the card. Up to 25% cash can also be withdrawn through the card,” she said.

Maryam was briefed: “A dedicated toll-free number 1786 has been activated for the guidance of applicants in the Easy Business Finance Scheme. For the scheme, applicants can get information on 1786. We want to encourage youths for self-employment. Providing employment opportunities after education is a responsibility of the government.”

The chief minister said: “Every youth of Punjab will play role in improving the economy through the Easy Business Finance Scheme which improve the economy by increasing exports.” Maryam on Tuesday took notice of a child injury due to electrocution after a kite string hit a wire in the Muzaffarpur area of Sialkot. She sought a report from the RPO Gujranwala. She directed the best healthcare facilities to the injured. She directed the administration to intensify a crackdown on the fatal business of kite flying.