In recent years, owning a home has become increasingly difficult for many families in Punjab. Rising building costs and long rents have left many feeling stuck. To change that, the Punjab government launched the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Scheme (literally “Our Roof, Our Home”) under the leadership of Maryam Nawaz. This programme aims to give low- and middle-income families the chance to build or own their own houses — and this article explains how it works, who qualifies, and how you can apply.
What is the Scheme?
The Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Scheme is a housing initiative by the Punjab government designed to provide affordable homes to residents who might otherwise find it difficult to build or buy their own. Punjab Government+2SAMAA TV+2
Through this programme, the government plans to deliver 100,000 homes or apartments across Punjab over approximately four and a half years. SMU Punjab+2Punjab Government+2
The scheme is executed in three main models:
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Houses built on state-land (so infrastructure and location are arranged). SMU Punjab+1
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Affordable housing in private schemes under special rules (private developers are involved). Zameen
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Interest-free or low-interest loans to individuals who already own a small plot, allowing them to build their own house. SMU Punjab+1
By providing large subsidies and favourable payment plans, the scheme lowers the barrier to home ownership for many families.
Who Can Apply / Eligibility
There are a number of eligibility criteria to ensure that the benefit goes to those who need it most:
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The applicant must be a permanent resident of Punjab and have a valid CNIC showing Punjab domicile. Punjab Government
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The applicant must be the head of their family (for example the husband/father) according to official records. Punjab Government
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The applicant should own a plot of land — up to 5 Marla (a small plot) in urban areas or up to 10 Marla in rural areas — and this is where the home is intended to be built. Punjab Government+1
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No criminal record (especially no major anti-state or antisocial convictions) and no default on bank or institutional loans. Punjab Government+1
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The applicant should be registered in the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) and have a PMT score at or below 60. Punjab Government+1
These rules help ensure that those who truly need support and meet the defined criteria are chosen.
How to Apply Online
Applying is now quite straightforward. Here are the general steps:
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Visit the official portal for the scheme: acag.punjab.gov.pk (this is the site for the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar application). Zameen+1
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Register as a citizen: provide your full name, CNIC number, father’s or husband’s CNIC, email, mobile number, address (division, district, tehsil), and create a password. SAMAA TV+1
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After registration you will be asked to affirm your eligibility (for example that you own the plot of the correct size, you don’t already own a home, etc.). apnichhatapnaghar.pk+1
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Log in, fill the application form, upload relevant documents (plot ownership, CNIC front and back, etc.), and submit. apnichhatapnaghar.pk+1
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You may also apply offline if needed — the government has provided registration desks in district offices for those who cannot apply online. apnichhatapnaghar.pk
Once your application is submitted, it will go through verification including land ownership checks, PMT/NSER verification, etc. Apni Chat Apna Ghar Scheme
Benefits & Payment Plans
One of the biggest advantages of this scheme is its affordability.
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The government provides a large subsidy, often up to around 60% of the total cost (depending on model). Zameen+1
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The remaining amount is expected to be paid by the beneficiary via down payment + monthly installments over several years. SAMAA TV
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There is often a grace period (e.g., three months) before installments begin, giving families some breathing room. SAMAA TV
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The scheme offers interest-free or very low-interest loans in certain models, reducing the burden of repayment. Ary News
Beyond the financial side, there are important social benefits:
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Families move from rented or informal housing into their own homes.
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Access to better facilities like electricity, water, sanitation. Punjab Government
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Job creation — housing construction generates work in many local industries and trades. SMU Punjab
Why This Matters
For many families, the dream of owning a home seems out of reach — due to high costs, high rents, or lack of access to finance. This scheme tackles that in a real way: making home ownership possible, not just a far-off dream.
By giving affordable loans, subsidies and a clear path, the government of Punjab is showing that it is committed to improving living standards for those with modest means. The ripple effects on wellbeing, stability and community development are significant.
Final Thoughts
If you are a resident of Punjab and meet the eligibility criteria, the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Scheme is worth serious consideration. It isn’t just about bricks and mortar — it’s about owning a space that belongs to your family, a place of security and pride.
Be sure to gather your documents, check the plot ownership and size, visit the official portal and apply carefully. With the right preparation, this could be the step that leads you from renting a house to owning one.
Let me know if you’d like help walking through the application form, or want to see examples of installment amounts or model homes under this scheme.