Discover CM Punjab Livestock Card 2025 offering interest-free loans & free livestock benefits. Apply online today for farmers’ financial support.
The Government of Punjab under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched the CM Punjab Livestock Card Scheme to support farmers across the province. This scheme is focused on providing interest-free loans to livestock farmers so they can purchase quality feed, silage, and mineral mixtures for their animals, especially calves raised for fattening. By offering this support, the program aims to improve cattle health, increase meat and milk production, and create better income opportunities for farming households. Along with the card scheme, the government has also introduced the CM Punjab Free Livestock Program 2025. Under this initiative, 11,000 poor widowed women living in South Punjab will receive free cows and buffaloes. This will help them establish a reliable source of income by selling milk and raising calves. Together, these two programs represent one of the largest government-backed steps in recent years to strengthen Punjab’s livestock sector, ensure food security, and uplift marginalized communities.
Background of the CM Punjab Livestock Card Scheme
Livestock has always been a backbone of Pakistan’s rural economy. Millions of households depend on cattle, buffaloes, goats, and other animals for daily income through milk, meat, and byproducts. Punjab, being the most populated and agriculturally active province, contributes a major share to the national livestock sector. In the past, the government introduced initiatives such as the Katta Paal Scheme which provided subsidies for calf fattening. Farmers benefited as they were able to raise healthier calves, increase meat supply, and generate higher earnings. Learning from this experience, the government has now moved one step further by launching the Livestock Card Scheme in 2024–25. The new program is not limited to subsidies but provides structured financial support in the form of interest-free loans. Farmers can use these loans to buy essential feed and minerals, which are crucial for the balanced growth of their animals. A healthy and well-fed animal produces more milk and grows faster, which directly contributes to the farmer’s income and to the province’s food supply chain.
Current Status of the CM Punjab Livestock Card Initiative
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif officially launched the CM Punjab Livestock Card in 2024. The scheme has been designed as a fully digitized and transparent loan facility for cattle farmers. Each farmer can apply for an interest-free loan ranging between PKR 135,000 and PKR 270,000. The repayment schedule is four months, with an additional one-month grace period. The loans are short-term because they are linked with calf fattening cycles and feed requirements. This approach ensures that farmers use the credit responsibly and return it within a reasonable time frame. What makes this scheme stand out is the role of the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB). PITB has developed an end-to-end digital application and verification system. From applying via SMS to loan approval and monitoring, every step has been automated to minimize delays and reduce human interference. This transparency is intended to protect farmers from exploitation and give them confidence that the scheme is fair. The program also aims to reduce reliance on private moneylenders who often charge high interest rates, creating a financial burden on farmers.
Key Highlights of the Livestock Card Scheme
The CM Punjab Livestock Card Scheme offers several key advantages. First, the loans are completely interest-free, making them accessible to small farmers who usually avoid formal banking systems due to high markups. Second, the application process is simple and fully digitized, ensuring that even farmers in rural areas can register easily. Third, the loans are designed to specifically cover cattle feed and veterinary requirements, meaning the funds are directly used to improve livestock health and productivity. Fourth, the short-term nature of the loans ensures quick circulation of funds, allowing more farmers to benefit. These highlights show that the government’s focus is not just on providing money but on ensuring that the money is used effectively for livestock prosperity.
Target Beneficiaries and Expected Outcomes
The Punjab government has set ambitious targets for the Livestock Card Scheme. Over the first two years, the scheme aims to reach between 40,000 and 80,000 farmers. In the first year alone, 10,000 to 20,000 farmers are expected to benefit, covering about 100,000 animals. By the second year, the numbers will rise to 30,000 to 60,000 farmers with 300,000 animals included. These figures show the large-scale nature of the program. The expected outcomes are equally important. With better access to feed and veterinary services, cattle will be healthier and gain more weight, leading to higher market value. Farmers will see increased milk yields and improved profitability. In the bigger picture, Pakistan’s meat and dairy industry will also strengthen, supporting food security and exports. Most importantly, farmers will no longer depend on high-interest informal loans and will instead have access to fair, government-backed financing.
How to Apply for the CM Punjab Livestock Card
The application process for the Livestock Card is simple. Farmers need to send an SMS from their registered mobile phone to 8070 in the format “PLC <space> CNIC.” For example, PLC 1234567891234. The application window was announced from November 5, 2024, to December 11, 2024. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, which means that farmers who apply early have a higher chance of receiving loans. This straightforward method ensures that even those with limited literacy can apply without complications.
Eligibility Criteria for the Livestock Card
To ensure that the benefits reach genuine farmers, the government has set clear eligibility requirements. Applicants must be residents of Punjab with an active mobile number registered under their CNIC. They must also be listed in the SPMS-9211 system. Furthermore, they should own at least five to ten male calves or young cattle. Applicants must have a clean credit history and should not be defaulters in any government loan program. These conditions make sure that only serious and responsible farmers receive financial support.
Support and Helpline Services
The government has established dedicated helplines and digital platforms to assist farmers. For updates and guidance, farmers can visit the official website livestock.punjab.gov.pk or call the 24/7 helpline at 08000-9211. This ensures that applicants can get timely information, resolve issues, and stay updated about the scheme’s progress.
CM Punjab Livestock Card Scheme 2025 – Cows and Buffaloes for Widowed Women
In addition to the Livestock Card Scheme, the Punjab government has introduced the Free Livestock Program 2025. This program specifically targets poor widowed and divorced women in South Punjab. A budget of Rs. 2 billion has been allocated to provide 11,000 cows and buffaloes to eligible women. The aim is to empower rural women by giving them a sustainable source of income. By selling milk and raising calves, these women can support their families with dignity instead of relying solely on charity. The initiative is part of the broader Livestock Asset Transfer strategy that focuses on poverty reduction and women empowerment.
Districts Covered Under the Free Livestock Program
The Free Livestock Program 2025 is focused on 12 districts in South Punjab, where poverty rates are higher and economic opportunities for women are limited. These districts include Multan, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Muzaffargarh, and Rahim Yar Khan, among others. The targeted approach ensures that the program reaches the communities that need it most.
Who Can Benefit from the Free Livestock Program?
The eligibility criteria for this program are strict to ensure that the animals go to the most deserving beneficiaries. Only widowed or divorced women under the age of 55 can apply. They must reside in one of the designated 12 districts and possess a Punjab domicile along with a valid CNIC. Applicants must belong to low-income households with no steady income sources. Each eligible woman will receive one cow or buffalo, ensuring that the resources are distributed fairly among households.
How to Apply for the Free Livestock Program
The registration process for the Free Livestock Program is straightforward. Applicants must visit the nearest veterinary clinic or animal hospital with their documents, including CNIC and proof such as a husband’s death certificate or divorce papers. Registration can also be done online using the Asset Transfer to Rural Women app or through the Punjab Livestock website. Once the application is approved, beneficiaries receive an SMS notification and can collect their animal from the designated center. The registration began on November 1, 2024, and continues into 2025.
Apply now:https://livestock.punjab.gov.pk/
Why Cows and Buffaloes are Central to Rural Empowerment
Cows and buffaloes are not just animals; they are valuable assets for rural families. A single buffalo can produce up to 12 liters of milk per day, which, when sold, creates a steady stream of income. Calves can be raised and sold later, providing long-term benefits. For widowed women, this opportunity is more than financial assistance—it is a chance to regain dignity, independence, and a sense of purpose. By owning livestock, women can contribute actively to their household economy and ensure their children’s education, food, and healthcare.
Benefits of the CM Punjab Livestock Programs
The combination of the Livestock Card Scheme and the Free Livestock Program delivers multiple benefits. Farmers gain access to interest-free loans, while widowed women receive free animals to generate income. The livestock sector benefits from improved productivity, which increases the supply of milk and meat across Punjab. Food security is enhanced, and rural employment opportunities are created. The use of digitized systems ensures transparency, reduces corruption risks, and improves service delivery. Together, these programs represent a holistic approach to rural development.
Conclusion: CM Punjab Livestock Card Scheme 2025
The CM Punjab Livestock Card Scheme and the Free Livestock Program 2025 are landmark initiatives that reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening the rural economy and supporting vulnerable communities. By providing farmers with interest-free loans and empowering widowed women with livestock assets, the programs address both financial challenges and social inequalities. These initiatives will not only increase milk and meat production but also create pathways for sustainable livelihoods. The integration of technology, transparency, and targeted support ensures that Punjab’s livestock sector becomes stronger and more resilient. For thousands of families across Punjab, these programs represent hope, opportunity, and a better future.
