Interest-free livestock loan program launched for Farmers : AD, Livestock

ATTOCK, Jul 16 (APP):The Punjab government has launched an interest-free loan program aimed at strengthening the province’s livestock sector by helping farmers expand their businesses and improve their financial stability, a senior livestock official said Thursday.

Speaking at a meeting , Additional Director (AD), Livestock Dr. Yasir Mustafa Butt said the Livestock card initiative was designed for farmers who own between five and 20 male calves or bull calves.

Under the scheme, eligible livestock farmers can obtain interest-free loans of up to 540,000 Pakistani rupees to support livestock breeding and management.

Dr. Butt said applications opened on July 15, 2026, and farmers could register through an online portal, a QR code, facilitation desks established at veterinary hospitals, or by calling the department’s 24-hour helpline.

To qualify, the applicants must be residents of Punjab, own at least five male calves or bull calves, have a mobile SIM registered in their own name, and possess a valid computerized national identity card (CNIC).

Under the program, the beneficiaries will receive Rs 27,000  per animal, with registration permitted for a minimum of five and a maximum of 20 animals per farm.

The Livestock card will allow farmers to purchase animal feed, silage and mineral mixtures from registered dealers in their respective tehsils.

The cardholders will also be able to withdraw up to 25% of the approved loan amount in cash through ATMs, while the remaining funds must be spent on livestock feed and related supplies through authorized dealers.

Dr. Butt said the Punjab Livestock and Dairy Development Department would provide full support to eligible livestock farmers in Attock as part of the provincial government’s efforts to modernize and expand the livestock sector.