The Punjab government has announced a series of impactful welfare, employment, and development decisions aimed at strengthening livelihoods, improving transport, and ensuring public safety. In a high-level cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in Lahore, multiple flagship initiatives were approved to benefit farmers, youth, joint families, and urban as well as rural communities.
Apna Khet Apna Rozgar Programme – Jobs Through Farming
One of the most significant decisions was the launch of the “Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar Programme”, designed to empower landless citizens. Under this initiative, government agricultural land will be allotted to 50,000 individuals, enabling them to engage in farming and earn sustainable incomes. This move is expected to boost agricultural productivity while reducing unemployment in rural areas.
New Jobs & Expansion of Electric Bus Services
To tackle unemployment, especially among youth, the cabinet approved new recruitment across key departments. At the same time, public transport reforms were accelerated with the decision to expand electric bus services to tehsil levels, ensuring modern transport access beyond major cities.
Quick Highlights of Cabinet Decisions
| Initiative | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar | Govt land for 50,000 landless citizens |
| New Govt Jobs | 1,000 Crime Control, 216 Excise, 980 Murree Tourism Police |
| Electric Buses | 1,000 green buses with cashless system |
| Youth Driving Permits | Allowed for ages 16–18 |
| Business Reforms | Easier laws to promote trade & tourism |
Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar – Relief for Joint Families
In a separate meeting, the Chief Minister expanded the “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” housing scheme. Families living in joint households will now be eligible for interest-free home expansion loans, addressing overcrowding issues.
In the first phase, residential plots will be allotted through balloting in:
- Jhelum (194 plots)
- Kasur (129 plots)
- Faisalabad (84 plots)
- Lodhran (79 plots)
Also Read: How to Check Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Application Status Online (Latest Guide 2026)
Basant Festival 2026 – Strict Safety & Security Plan
Ahead of the three-day Basant Festival (6–8 next month in Lahore), the government approved a comprehensive safety strategy. The city will be divided into zones, with strict entry rules for the Red Zone. Key safety steps include:
- Free safety rods for 1 million motorcyclists
- Heavy fines up to Rs 2 million for illegal kite flying
- Motorcycles restricted without protective wires
- Finalized traffic and law-and-order arrangements
Conclusion
The Punjab cabinet’s latest decisions reflect a strong focus on employment generation, affordable housing, modern transport, youth inclusion, and public safety. From empowering landless farmers through Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar to expanding housing access and ensuring a safe Basant Festival, these reforms aim to deliver real, on-ground impact across Punjab. If implemented effectively, these initiatives could significantly improve economic stability and quality of life for thousands of families.
