KP CM announces interest free loans for youth

F.P. Report

PESHAWAR: Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sardar Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, has emphasized the urgent need to address the issue of unemployment in the province. He has directed the immediate finalization and implementation of Ehsaas Naujwan Rozgar, Ehsaas Hunar and Ehsaas Rozgar Programs.

Similarly, in order to cater for the housing needs of low income house holds in the province and raise their socio-economic conditions, the preparation for “Ehsas Apna Ghar Program” was reviewed. Under “Ehsas Apna Ghar Program” interest-free loans up to 1.5 million rupees would be offered to low income people for construction of new house, renovation & improvement of existing house or owning an apartment.

During a joint meeting of the relevant departments, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of a realistic and equitable approach to these initiatives. The meeting was attended by provincial cabinet members Muzammil Aslam, Syed Fakhr Jahan, Mashal Azam, Amjad Ali, Abdul Karim Tordhair and Additional Chief Secretary P&D Syed Imtiaz Hussain Shah, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Amjad Ali Khan, and other relevant officials.

Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa underscored that each district should receive its fair share based on population, merit, and without political bias. He stressed the need for transparency in the implementation process to ensure that the benefits of these programs reach the youth, particularly those in remote and underserved areas.

The meeting discussed the pilot project under the Ehsaas Naujawan Rozgar Scheme, which will offer soft loans up to ten million rupees. These loans are intended for individuals with the skills and viable plans to start their own businesses. Similarly, the Ehsaas Rozgar Scheme will provide interest-free loans of up to two lakh rupees to those wishing to start or expand small-scale businesses, with support from welfare organization.

Moreover, under the Ehsaas Hunar Program, graduates and diploma/certificate holders from technical and vocational educational institutions will be eligible for interest-free loans of up to five lakh rupees, to establish their own businesses.

Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa stressed that for these programs to be successful, it is crucial that the funds reach the deserving and capable youth of the province, enabling them to transition from job seekers to job creators.