CM Punjab Announces Apni Zameen Apna Ghar Program for 19 Districts

On July 1, 2025, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz introduced the Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar Program, a transformative initiative that promises to deliver land and shelter to low-income families across 19 districts of Punjab. This landmark scheme is focused on empowering landless citizens, especially those who are economically vulnerable, with free ownership of residential plots. For many, this is not just a piece of land—it’s the foundation for a stable and dignified future.

What is the Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar Program?

The Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar Program is a residential land distribution scheme launched by the Punjab Government. Under this plan, eligible families will receive 3-marla plots completely free of cost. These plots will serve as the foundation upon which families can build their own homes with future assistance. The program is part of a broader vision to reduce homelessness, improve rural living conditions, and reduce urban migration caused by lack of affordable housing.

Districts Covered in the First Phase

The first phase of the program targets 19 districts selected based on poverty levels and the number of homeless families identified in official surveys. These districts include:

  • Rajanpur
  • Bahawalpur
  • Rahim Yar Khan
  • Dera Ghazi Khan
  • Muzaffargarh
  • Layyah
  • Bhakkar
  • Mianwali
  • Lodhran
  • Vehari
  • Khanewal
  • Chakwal
  • Jhelum
  • Khushab
  • Pakpattan
  • Sahiwal
  • Okara
  • Bahawalnagar
  • Chiniot

These areas have been prioritized due to the high levels of poverty and housing insecurity reported there.

Main Objectives of the Program

The program is not just about giving away plots—it aims to create long-term change. Key goals include:

  • Providing permanent housing solutions to those without land or homes
  • Empowering poor and landless citizens through legal land ownership
  • Supporting widows, disabled persons, and orphans by giving them top priority
  • Reducing urban migration caused by rural housing shortages
  • Helping women-headed households achieve financial independence through property rights
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Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To qualify for the Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar Program, applicants must meet the following conditions:

  • Must be a Pakistani citizen residing in Punjab
  • Family must not own any land or house
  • Must be in the low-income bracket, as verified by the BISP or Ehsaas Program databases
  • Widows, disabled individuals, and orphans will be given special preference
  • CNIC must be valid and linked to a registered household

How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Visit Tehsil Office or Use Online Portal

Forms will be made available both physically at the Assistant Commissioner’s Office and digitally through a Punjab Housing Portal (to be launched soon).

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

Applicants must provide:

  • A valid copy of CNIC
  • Proof of income
  • Affidavit of landlessness
  • Additional documents if applying as a widow, orphan, or disabled person

Step 3: Home Verification

A team from the Revenue Department will visit the applicant’s home and verify their eligibility. This includes cross-checking with official records and income levels.

Step 4: Approval and Allotment

After verification, successful applicants will receive:

  • A plot allotment certificate
  • Official land demarcation papers
  • Full ownership rights, permanently registered in their name

What Comes Next? Construction Assistance & Phase 2

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has also announced that Phase 2 of the program will include:

  • Interest-free home construction loans
  • Basic utilities like electricity, gas, and water for new plots
  • Technical assistance to help families build secure and safe homes

Additionally, the Punjab government is working with the Punjab Land Records Authority (PLRA) and the Urban Unit to digitize land allotment records, ensuring transparency and protection against fraud.

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Maryam Nawaz’s Vision for a Better Punjab

While addressing the launch, CM Maryam Nawaz made a powerful statement:

“This is not just a plot of land—it’s a foundation of dignity, stability, and hope for thousands. No family in Punjab should sleep under the open sky anymore.”

This highlights the human-centered vision behind the program: restoring dignity to people who’ve been ignored for too long.

Key Features at a Glance

FeatureDetails
Targeted Districts19 (South and Central Punjab)
Plot Size3 Marla
Cost to BeneficiaryFree of cost
Preference Given ToWidows, Disabled, Orphans
Ownership TypePermanent and Transferable
Verification AgencyPunjab Revenue Department
Land Records AuthorityPLRA
Construction SupportInterest-free loans, basic utilities
ImplementationCM Office, Revenue Dept, PLRA
Support Helpline042-111-123-456 (Coming Soon)

Helpline and Support Services

To make things easier for citizens, the government will soon launch a dedicated helpline at 042-111-123-456. This line will offer guidance on applications, document requirements, eligibility, and more. Citizens can also visit their nearest tehsil office for personal help and updates.

Final Thoughts

The Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar Program stands as a beacon of hope for thousands of families living without secure shelter. More than just a housing scheme, it’s a major social uplift project that reflects the Punjab government’s serious commitment to inclusive development, poverty reduction, and dignity for all.

If implemented effectively, it could redefine housing in rural Punjab and inspire similar reforms across Pakistan.

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