Punjab launches livestock support and interest-free loan schemes

The Punjab government has launched the second phase of two major initiatives aimed at strengthening the provincial livestock sector and supporting rural livelihoods.

Under the Livestock Support Programme, the government has completed electronic balloting to select 3,304 deserving rural women to receive free cows and buffaloes. This Rs 3 billion initiative, which received over 75,000 applications, aims to empower women economically by providing assets that generate milk for household consumption and income through sales. Distribution is scheduled to begin on October 20, 2026, in districts including Multan, Khanewal, Lodhran, Vehari, and Rajanpur.

Simultaneously, the government has inaugurated the second phase of the Livestock Card Scheme, providing Rs 16.2 billion in interest-free loans to livestock farmers. The scheme is designed to improve animal nutrition and meat production by helping farmers purchase essential feed, silage, and mineral mixtures. Eligible farmers can receive Rs 27,000 per animal, with the provincial government covering all interest costs. The program also includes free animal tagging and vaccinations against foot-and-mouth disease to enhance productivity and animal health.