The Government of Punjab, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has launched a historic housing initiative titled “Apni Zameen Apna Ghar” (Your Land, Your Home). This programme aims to provide free residential plots to deserving citizens, enabling them to build their own homes with government-backed financial support. While the first phase of the scheme has already started in several districts, new updates indicate that the big cities of Punjab will soon be included in the programme’s upcoming expansion phase.
Overview of the Program
The “Apni Zameen Apna Ghar” project is part of the Punjab government’s plan to fix housing shortages and help low- and middle-income families become homeowners. The focus of the programme is on these things:
- Providing free three-marla residential plots to eligible applicants.
- Offering interest-free loans for house construction.
- The program will also ensure a transparent and digital selection process.
The programme will not only solve housing issues but also boost the local economy by generating employment opportunities in the construction sector.
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Phase 1 – Current Progress
The scheme was officially launched in May 2025 across 19 districts of Punjab.
Key highlights from Phase 1:
- Free plot allocation: Approximately 2,000 plots have been allotted to eligible citizens in 23 housing projects.
- It includes the towns of Jhelum, Pattoki, Mamun Kanjan, Lodhran, Renala Khurd, and more.
- Daily Press: Approximately 300 houses are being constructed daily under this initiative.
- Financial support: Beneficiaries are receiving government assistance to construct their homes.
- Transparency measures: The entire process is online, with NADRA verification and computerised balloting to ensure fairness.
Eligibility Criteria
Those who want to be considered for the school must meet certain requirements:
- Must be a permanent resident of the district where the scheme is offered.
- Should not own any property in their name.
- Applicants must provide a valid CNIC and proof of residence.
- Required documents include a CNIC copy, a Family Registration Certificate (FRC), a recent utility bill, and an affidavit of eligibility.
Big Cities to Join Soon
The Punjab government has confirmed that Phase 2 will include big cities, whereas Phase 1 primarily targeted smaller cities and rural districts. Cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Bahawalpur are likely to benefit from the expansion.
The inclusion of big cities means:
- More urban residents will have the chance to own a plot.
- There will be a surge in the demand for housing finance in metropolitan areas.
- The integration of housing development with urban planning will be enhanced.
Why This Matters for Urban Families
Owning property in big cities has become increasingly difficult due to rising land prices and limited space. By introducing this programme in metropolitan areas, the government aims to:
- Make affordable housing accessible for middle- and low-income groups.
- Reduce informal settlements by providing legal housing options.
- Improve living standards through planned communities.
Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar – A Related Scheme
Alongside the main programme, the Punjab government has also launched “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar”, which offers interest-free loans to individuals who already own land but lack funds for construction.
Key facts:
- Budget: Over Rs. 42 billion allocated in July 2025.
- Purpose: Enable landowners to build homes without a financial burden.
- Benefit: Encourages self-construction while avoiding housing shortages.
Application Process
The application process is designed to be simple yet secure:
- Visit the official website: https://azag.punjab.gov.pk
- Fill out the online form with personal details.
- Please upload the necessary documents for verification.
- Please await the verification from NADRA and the land records.
- Eligible applicants will be entered into computerised balloting.
- Winners will be notified and allotted plots.
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Expected Impact
The “Apni Zameen Apna Ghar” programme is expected to have a significant impact on Punjab’s housing and economic sectors:
- Housing development: Thousands of new homes across the province.
- Job creation: Employment opportunities in construction, supply chains, and related industries.
- Urban growth: Well-planned communities in big cities, reducing congestion in slum areas.
- Social stability: Providing permanent housing to underprivileged families will improve the quality of life and reduce poverty.
Government’s Commitment
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has emphasised that the programme will be transparent, fair, and inclusive. She has instructed authorities to accelerate the construction process and ensure that beneficiaries receive timely possession of plots.
Conclusion
The expansion of the “Apni Zameen Apna Ghar” programme to big cities is a positive step towards solving Punjab’s housing crisis. For urban residents, this is a golden opportunity to secure a plot and build a home without the overwhelming cost of land purchase. By combining free land allocation with interest-free construction loans, the Punjab government is setting a strong example of how public welfare projects can transform lives.
If you live in a big city and meet the eligibility criteria, now is the time to prepare your documents and stay updated for Phase 2 announcements. Your dream home might be closer than you think.
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