Maryam launches ‘Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar’ e-portal

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif formally launched the e-portal for the ‘Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar’ programme on Saturday, announcing that 300 new houses are being built daily across the province for homeless citizens.

She said that in just six months, construction of 34,000 houses has commenced, with 2,000 already completed. Addressing the inaugural ceremony, she said, “People can now apply for free residential plots through the official portal: [azag.punjab.gov.pk] (http://azag.punjab.gov.pk).” She revealed that 2,000 plots will be distributed across 23 housing schemes in 19 districts of Punjab.

Highlighting key features of the initiative, CM Maryam said, “Under the ‘Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar’ programme, homeless families will receive free three-marla plots. Those selected through the balloting process will also be provided with loans to help build their homes.” In Phase I, free plots will be allotted in Jhelum, Pattoki, Mamun Kanjan, Lodhran, and Renala Khurd. “This programme is very close to my heart,” said the chief minister. “Providing shelter to the homeless is the vision of PMLN Quaid Nawaz Sharif, who takes immense pride in seeing homes being built for the underprivileged.”

The CM highlighted the simplicity of the process, noting that a three-month grace period has been set for construction, while loan repayment will be made in easy instalments. “There are thousands across Punjab who don’t even have land to build on. Initially, 2,000 applicants will receive free plots through the portal.” She pointed out that previous governments failed to build such a large number of homes even during their full terms.

Separately, CM Maryam Nawaz, in her message on the World Press Freedom Day, reaffirmed her government’s commitment to upholding the rights and safety of journalists, emphasizing that a free, independent, and responsible media is essential for a vibrant democracy. She also announced that comprehensive measures are being put in place to ensure the safety and protection of journalists in Punjab. She added, “We are striving to fulfil the dream of providing secure housing for the journalist community.”

Also, CM Maryam Nawaz congratulated newly-elected office-bearers of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), including its President Kazim Khan, Senior Vice President Ayaz Khan, Secretary General Ghulam Nabi Chandio, Deputy Secretary General Tanveer Shaukat and others. She expressed the best wishes for them and hoped that they would play their due role in promoting independent and responsible journalism in the country.

The chief minister also expressed a deep sense of grief and sorrow over the demise of Jamiat Ahle Hadith Ameer Professor Sajid Mir. She offered sincere condolences, and extended her heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family.