The Government of Punjab has introduced the groundbreaking Assan Karobar Scheme, a flagship initiative aimed at empowering entrepreneurs and boosting economic growth across the province.
This scheme provides interest-free loans to individuals for starting or expanding their businesses, ensuring financial inclusion and fostering entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.
Under the visionary leadership of the Punjab Chief Minister, the Assan Karobar Scheme is divided into two main programs:
1. CM Punjab Assan Karobar Card
2. CM Punjab Assan Karobar Finance
These programs aim to provide zero-markup financial assistance to both budding and established entrepreneurs, enabling them to turn their business ideas into reality.
1. CM Punjab Assan Karobar Card
The Assan Karobar Card program is specifically designed for individuals looking for small and medium-sized loans to either kickstart their businesses or sustain their existing ventures.
Key Features:
Total Allocation: PKR 48 billion
Loan Limit: Up to PKR 10 lakh
Markup: 0% (Interest-Free Loans)
Repayment Period: Up to 3 years
Application Fee: None
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the CM Punjab Assan Karobar Card, applicants must meet the following conditions:
Must be a resident of Punjab.
Age requirement: 21 to 57 years.
Must not have any government jobholders in the family.
The business must be registered through NADRA.
Priority is given to women entrepreneurs, youth, and skilled professionals.
This card acts as a financial lifeline for small-scale entrepreneurs and individuals looking to make a sustainable living through their businesses.
2. CM Punjab Assan Karobar Finance
The Assan Karobar Finance program is designed for larger-scale business ventures, enabling established businesses to expand, modernize, or innovate.
Key Features:
Total Allocation: PKR 36 billion
Loan Limit: Up to PKR 3 crore
Markup: 0% (Interest-Free Loans)
Repayment Period: Up to 5 years
Eligibility Criteria:
To avail of the benefits of CM Punjab Assan Karobar Finance, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Must be a resident of Punjab.
Age requirement: 25 to 55 years.
The business must be registered with the relevant government authority.
Applicants must meet the annual business revenue benchmarks.
Special preference is given to women entrepreneurs and youth with innovative ideas.
This program is a game-changer for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to scale their businesses without the burden of high-interest loans.
How to Apply for the Assan Karobar Scheme?
The application process for the Assan Karobar Scheme is simple and accessible. Applicants can register and apply online through the official government portals:
For Assan Karobar Card: akc.punjab.gov.pk
For Assan Karobar Finance: akf.punjab.gov.pk
Additionally, individuals can call the Assan Karobar Helpline at 1786 for guidance and support.
Sectors Covered Under the Assan Karobar Scheme
The Assan Karobar Scheme caters to a wide range of industries and sectors, including:
Agriculture: Financing for modern farming techniques and tools.
Small Manufacturing Units: Support for production-based businesses.
IT Startups: Encouraging innovation and digital entrepreneurship.
Retail Businesses: Empowering local shop owners and traders.
Handicrafts and Traditional Arts: Reviving cultural and traditional businesses.
The Assan Karobar Scheme is not just a financial support program; it’s a step toward creating a self-reliant Punjab. Here’s why it stands out:
Zero Markup Loans: Entrepreneurs can avail of loans without the financial strain of high-interest rates.
Inclusive Opportunities: Special focus on women, youth, and marginalized communities.
Boost to Local Economy: Promoting small businesses and creating job opportunities.
Ease of Access: Simple online application process and government support.
The Assan Karobar Scheme by the Punjab Government is a visionary initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and boosting Punjab’s economic potential. With zero-markup loans and flexible repayment options, this program ensures that no aspiring entrepreneur is left behind.
Take the first step toward your entrepreneurial journey by applying today. Let’s build a prosperous Punjab together!
For more, visit:
akc.punjab.gov.pk and akf.punjab.gov.pk
Or call 1786 for assistance.
