The Punjab government has officially launched the Free Livestock Distribution Program to support rural women, particularly in South Punjab. This initiative, introduced under the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, aims to empower 11,000 deserving women by providing free livestock, including cows, buffaloes, and goats. The program is backed by a Rs. 2 billion fund allocated by the provincial government.
Objectives of the Program
The primary goal of this initiative is to create economic opportunities for rural women while enhancing milk production through improved livestock quality. By distributing healthy animals, the government aims to:
- Empower rural women financially.
- Boost dairy production with superior breeds.
- Provide sustainable livelihood opportunities.
- Promote modern livestock management practices.
This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in poverty reduction and women’s empowerment in Punjab’s rural communities.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a woman residing in a rural area of Punjab.
- Must be below 55 years of age.
- Must have a poverty score below 32.
- Must possess a valid CNIC (ID card).
- Widows must provide a death certificate of their spouse.
- Must not have received cattle in any other government scheme within the past five years.
Only applicants fulfilling these conditions will be considered for livestock distribution.
Eligible Districts
The program is exclusively available for women from 12 districts of South Punjab:
- Dera Ghazi Khan
- Muzaffargarh
- Rajanpur
- Layyah
- Kot Addu
- Bahawalpur
- Bahawalnagar
- Rahim Yar Khan
- Multan
- Khanewal
- Vehari
- Lodhran
Women from other districts are not eligible at this stage.
Registration Process
The Punjab government offers two registration methods:
1. Online Registration
- Download the “Asset Transfer to Rural Women” app from the Google Play Store.
- Fill out the registration form with accurate details.
- Submit your application and wait for verification.
2. Registration via Facilitation Desk
- Visit the nearest veterinary dispensary in your district.
- Approach the Chief Minister’s Facilitation Desk.
- Provide required documents, including CNIC and proof of eligibility.
- Complete the registration process with the help of officials.
Selection and Distribution Process
Once registration is completed, applicants will undergo screening and verification. The selection will be based on poverty scores, livestock experience, and household needs.
Steps After Registration:
- Verification – All applications will be reviewed by the Punjab Livestock Department.
- Shortlisting – Eligible applicants will be selected based on merit.
- Livestock Allocation – Selected women will be assigned livestock based on their ability to manage them.
- Distribution Events – The government will organize events in each district for livestock handover.
- Post-Distribution Support – Beneficiaries will receive training and veterinary services to maintain livestock health.
Contact Information
For any guidance or clarification regarding the program, contact the official helpline:
- Helpline Number: 0800-09211
- Availability: 24/7 support for queries and complaints.
Conclusion
The Punjab Free Livestock Distribution Program is a significant step toward empowering rural women and boosting the dairy industry. By providing free livestock, the government ensures financial stability, food security, and employment opportunities for thousands of families.
This initiative not only benefits individual households but also contributes to Punjab’s agriculture sector. If you meet the eligibility criteria, do not miss this opportunity to secure a sustainable source of income.
Start your registration process today and take a step towards a brighter future!