Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched a historic initiative to empower poor and deserving rural women by giving them livestock (buffaloes and cows) to help them earn a steady income and become self-sufficient. This initiative, which started with the distribution of 4,870 animals, has now entered its second phase, with Rs. 2 billion allocated and a target to distribute over 11,000 animals across Punjab. This program is not just about providing cattle, it’s about giving rural women a livelihood, a sense of ownership, and an opportunity to break the cycle of poverty.
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First Phase Summary – 4,870 Animals Given
In the initial phase, a total of 4,870 buffaloes and cows were distributed to selected rural women across various districts. These women were carefully shortlisted based on their economic conditions and willingness to work.
Key highlights of Phase 1:
- Free of cost buffaloes and cows
- Priority given to widows, orphans, and extremely poor households
- Veterinary care and basic training also included
This phase proved successful in improving household incomes and enabling women to sell milk and dairy products in their villages.
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Second Phase: Rs. 2 Billion Allocated for 11,000 More Beneficiaries
After the overwhelming success of the first phase, CM Maryam Nawaz has now expanded the scheme. In the second phase, the Punjab Government will distribute 11,000 buffaloes and cows with a budget of Rs. 2 billion.
This expansion reflects the government’s dedication to:
- Creating rural employment
- Uplifting women economically
- Boosting the dairy and livestock sector
Overview Livelihood Program
| Feature | Details |
| Launched By | CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif |
| Phase 1 Output | 4,870 buffaloes and cows distributed |
| Phase 2 Target | 11,000 animals to be distributed |
| Total Budget for Phase 2 | Rs. 2 Billion |
| Target Group | Poor and deserving rural women in Punjab |
| Focus Areas | Livelihood, Dairy Farming, Rural Development |
| Support Services | Training, animal care, veterinary check-ups, business tips |
Eligibility Criteria for the Rural Women Livestock Program
- Must be a resident of rural Punjab
- Should be a poor or deserving woman
- Widows, divorcees, or household heads will be preferred
- Must be unemployed and have no regular income source
- Should have space and ability to care for the animal
- Must be willing to attend training for animal care
- BISP or Ehsaas beneficiaries will be given priority
- Should not have received livestock in previous phases
Read More: CM Maryam Nawaz Livestock Distribution Program
Registration Process for the Rural Women Livestock Program
Here is the Apply Process in simple points for the Rural Women Livestock Program:
- Visit your nearest Union Council or Livestock Department office
- Get the application form or register your name
- Submit your CNIC copy and other basic documents
- Verification team will visit your home for eligibility check
- If eligible, your name will be added to the beneficiary list
- You will receive a call or message if selected
- Attend training before receiving the cow or buffalo
Why This Program Is So Important
In many rural areas of Pakistan, women do a lot of the work but have no financial independence. This program tackles that problem by giving them an asset they can use to:
- Sell milk and earn income daily
- Make butter, yogurt, and ghee for sale
- Breed cattle and expand income in future
- Become financially stronger and confident
This is especially beneficial for widows, divorcees, and household heads, who now have a way to support their children and families.
Read More: Punjab E-Taxi Scheme 2025 Full Eligibility Criteria
Final Thoughts
This program reflects real empowerment, not just in slogans but through practical action. Distributing livestock instead of cash is a smart move; it gives poor women something sustainable, something that can keep paying back for years to come. With Rs. 2 billion already invested in the second phase and a growing number of women now standing on their own feet, Punjab is setting an example for the rest of the country. If properly implemented and monitored, this initiative can become a model of rural women empowerment in South Asia.
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