The Government of Punjab has launched a major housing initiative under the banner “Apni Zameen Apna Ghar” aimed at providing free residential plots to the province’s underprivileged and low-income families. This initiative, spearheaded by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, is designed to address the housing shortage and improve living standards across Punjab by enabling eligible families to build homes of their own.

Purpose of the Scheme

The Apni Zameen Apna Ghar scheme is a flagship welfare program aimed at:

  • Empowering landless and low-income families.
  • Facilitating the construction of safe and affordable housing.
  • Reducing urban overcrowding and informal settlements.
  • Promoting economic stability through home ownership.

Under this scheme, eligible beneficiaries will receive 3-marla residential plots (approximately 675 square feet) free of cost in various rural and semi-urban areas across Punjab.

Eligibility Criteria : Ghar

To ensure the benefits reach the most deserving, the Punjab government has outlined strict eligibility conditions for applicants. These include:

  1. Head of Household: The applicant must be registered as the head of their family in the NADRA database.
  2. Permanent Resident of Punjab: Only individuals with a Punjab address on their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) are eligible to apply.
  3. Land Ownership Restrictions:
    • In urban areas: The applicant must own no more than 5 marla of land.
    • In rural areas: The applicant must own no more than 10 marla of land.
  4. Criminal Record: Applicants must not have a criminal history or be involved in any illegal activities.
  5. Financial Integrity: Individuals declared as loan defaulters by banks or other financial institutions are not eligible.
  6. Socioeconomic Status (PMT Score):
    • Applicants must be registered with the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER).
    • A Poverty Means Test (PMT) score of 60 or below is mandatory.

These filters are meant to target the most financially vulnerable citizens and ensure fair distribution of land resources.

Application Process

The Punjab government has enabled both online and offline methods for submitting applications to make the scheme accessible to all.

1. Online Application

Applicants can apply by visiting the official portal: https://acag.punjab.gov.pk

Steps to apply online:

  • Visit the official website.
  • Fill out the online application form.
  • Upload required documents (CNIC, land ownership proof, income certificate, etc.).
  • Submit the form and keep a confirmation number for tracking.

2. Offline Application

Applicants who do not have internet access can apply in person by visiting the nearest Deputy Commissioner’s Office or the Apni Zameen Apna Ghar registration desk.

Documents required for offline application include:

  • Copy of CNIC.
  • Proof of land ownership or lack thereof.
  • Income certificate or employer letter.
  • Any utility bill to confirm residence (optional).
  • NSER Registration and PMT Score proof.

All submitted applications will be carefully reviewed by district authorities. Approved candidates will receive plot allotments based on transparent balloting procedures.

Support and Information

To assist applicants, the government has also provided dedicated helplines and resources:

🔍 Key Points to Remember

  • Only one application per household is allowed.
  • Priority will be given to widows, orphans, and people with disabilities.
  • Submitting false documents may lead to legal action.
  • No processing or registration fee is required.

Conclusion of Ghar

The Apni Zameen Apna Ghar initiative is a bold step by the Punjab government toward resolving the province’s housing challenges. By providing free plots to deserving citizens, it empowers families with the dignity of homeownership and contributes to broader socioeconomic upliftment. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply promptly and ensure they provide accurate and verifiable information during the process.

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