ISLAMABAD: The federal government has reduced the number of documents required for the Apna Ghar Scheme from 25 to five. The decision aims to simplify the application process and make housing finance more accessible to citizens.
The decision was taken during a high-level review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Officials also agreed to introduce a maximum processing period for applications.
Under the new arrangement, applications must be processed within 15 working days. The measure aims to speed up loan approvals and reduce delays for applicants.
The prime minister directed officials to simplify the process further. He also instructed relevant departments to help citizens obtain the property ownership documents required for housing finance.
The changes are expected to make the application process easier for people seeking financial support for housing. Reducing paperwork could also help applicants complete the required formalities more efficiently.
Apna Ghar Scheme Application Process Simplified
The government has identified documentation requirements as an important area for improvement. Previously, applicants had to provide 25 documents when applying under the Apna Ghar Scheme.
The required number has now been reduced to five. This change is intended to reduce the administrative burden on applicants.
The government has also introduced a 15-working-day processing limit. This aims to establish a clearer timeline for handling applications and approving loans.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the need for further improvements. He directed officials to assist citizens who face difficulties obtaining property ownership documents.
These documents are important for housing finance applications. Their availability can affect how quickly applicants complete the required process.
However, applicants should check the official scheme guidelines for the updated document list and other eligibility requirements.
SBP Asked to Propose Further Lending Reforms
During the meeting, the prime minister also directed the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and relevant ministries to consult stakeholders.
They have been asked to prepare final proposals by the end of October. The proposals will focus on improving lending facilities for housing, agriculture, and small businesses.
The initiative aims to address procedural challenges and improve access to financing across these sectors.
The meeting also reviewed progress under the government’s existing lending programmes. Officials shared figures related to agricultural financing and loans for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Agricultural Financing Reaches Rs. 1,352 Billion
According to the briefing, agricultural lending has reached Rs. 1,352 billion. The government aims to increase this amount to Rs. 1,500 billion by June 2027.
It also plans to expand the number of beneficiary farmers to 4.5 million. The target reflects the government’s broader efforts to increase access to agricultural financing.
Improved lending facilities can help farmers access funds for their agricultural activities. However, the impact will depend on financing availability and the terms offered to borrowers.
SME Lending Crosses Rs. 1,137 Billion
The meeting also reviewed financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). More than 352,000 businesses have received loans worth Rs. 1,137 billion.
The government aims to increase lending to this sector to Rs. 1,500 billion by June 2027. It also plans to extend financial support to 575,000 business owners.
These targets form part of the government’s broader lending strategy. The strategy covers housing finance, agricultural loans, and funding for smaller businesses.
What the Changes Mean for Applicants
The reduction in paperwork is a key change for people applying under the Apna Ghar Scheme. Applicants will now be required to submit five documents instead of 25, according to the announcement.
The 15-working-day processing limit is another important measure. It aims to make application handling more predictable and reduce waiting times.
The government has also called for additional reforms in housing finance. Further proposals are expected following consultations involving the State Bank of Pakistan and relevant ministries.
In other news read more about Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Program Selected for UN-Habitat Honour Award
Applicants should follow official announcements for details about eligibility, required documents, and the application procedure. The updated guidelines will help clarify how the revised process will work.
