CM Punjab Launched Livestock Card Scheme to Empower Farmers

Today, the Chief Minister of Punjab announced the launch of the Livestock Card Scheme, a groundbreaking initiative to support livestock farmers across the province. With an allocated budget of PKR 11 billion, this program is designed to provide interest-free loans, helping farmers improve their livestock management practices and financial stability.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the scheme aims to uplift the livelihoods of livestock farmers and contribute to the province’s agricultural prosperity. Over the next two years, 90,000 livestock farmers are expected to benefit from this program.

What is the Livestock Card Scheme?

The Livestock Card Scheme is a government initiative that provides interest-free loans to farmers. Using these loans, farmers can purchase essential livestock supplies such as Wanda (feed), silage, and mineral mixtures for calf fattening. This program ensures that farmers have the financial resources needed to provide balanced nutrition for their animals, ultimately improving livestock productivity.

Key Benefits of the Scheme

The Livestock Card Scheme offers several benefits to farmers:

1. Interest-Free Loans: Farmers can avail loans without paying any interest, easing financial pressure.
2. Loan Range: Farmers can borrow amounts ranging from PKR 135,000 to PKR 270,000.
3. Flexible Repayment Terms: The loan repayment period is 4 months, with an additional 1-month grace period.

Application Process

The application process is fully digitized, making it simple and accessible for all eligible farmers. The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) has developed a state-of-the-art system for efficient processing and verification of applications.

Farmers can apply by following these steps:

1. Send an SMS: Farmers need to send their CNIC to 8070 in the format PLC <space> CNIC.
2. Eligibility Check: The system verifies eligibility and processes applications on a first-come, first-served basis.

Also Read: PSER Online Survey Registration 2025 PSER.Punjab.Gov.pk

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Livestock Card Scheme, farmers must meet the following requirements:

• Be a resident of Punjab.
• Have an active phone number registered under their CNIC.
• Be registered in the SPMS-9211 system.
• Own 5 to 10 male calves or young stock (buffalo/cattle).
• Have a clean credit history with no prior defaults under government loan schemes.

Goals for the Next Two Years

The Chief Minister announced ambitious goals for the scheme’s rollout:

• First Year: The program will benefit 10,000 to 20,000 farmers and 100,000 animals.
• Second Year: An additional 30,000 to 60,000 farmers and 300,000 animals will benefit.

By 2026, a total of 90,000 livestock cards will be distributed to eligible farmers, making it one of the largest livestock support programs in Punjab’s history.

Key Features of the Initiative

1. Modern Technology: The scheme leverages advanced technology for efficient application processing and verification.
2. Improved Livelihoods: Farmers can use the loans to provide better nutrition for their livestock, increasing productivity and profitability.
3. Sustainability: The program focuses on creating a sustainable livestock sector by supporting small-scale farmers.

Helpline and Support

Farmers can access more information about the Livestock Card Scheme through the following channels:

• Website: livestock.punjab.gov.pk
• Helpline: Call 08000-9211 (available 24/7) for assistance.

Summary

The launch of the Livestock Card Scheme marks a significant step towards empowering livestock farmers in Punjab. With an investment of PKR 11 billion, the initiative will not only improve the financial conditions of farmers but also boost the livestock sector’s productivity. The Chief Minister’s commitment to distributing 90,000 cards over the next two years demonstrates the government’s dedication to agricultural development and rural prosperity.

Farmers are encouraged to apply early to benefit from this transformative program and take the first step towards a brighter, more prosperous future.