The Punjab government, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has launched the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme and the Asaan Karobar Card to boost economic growth and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the province. This initiative provides interest-free loans to entrepreneurs, aiming to foster business growth across Punjab.
Overview of the Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme in Punjab
The Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme is part of the Punjab government’s strategy to empower entrepreneurs and enhance the business environment. Designed to support new and existing businesses, this scheme offers interest-free loans with easy repayment terms. The Punjab Asaan Karobar Card is the primary tool for accessing these loans, enabling business owners to invest in their operations without the burden of interest.
Eligibility Criteria for the Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme
To qualify for the Asaan Karobar Loan Scheme 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Punjab.
- Age Range: The applicant’s age should be between 25 to 55 years.
- Inclusive: The scheme is open to men, women, transgender individuals, and persons with disabilities.
- Required Documents: A valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) and National Tax Number (NTN) are essential for the application process.
Applicants must also own or rent the premises where they operate their business, ensuring that the business has a stable physical base for operations.
How to Apply Online for the Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme
Applying for the Punjab Asaan Karobar Card is a straightforward process, thanks to the PITB portal. Here’s how you can apply online:
- Visit the official PITB portal to begin the application.
- Fill in the necessary details about your business and personal information.
- Upload your CNIC, NTN, and proof of business premises.
- Pay a non-refundable processing fee of PKR 500.
- Submit your application for digital verification.
Once your application is verified, you will receive approval, and the loan will be disbursed according to the terms.
Loan Amounts of Asaan Karobar Card
The Asaan Karobar Card offers loans with the following terms:
- Loan Amounts: Between Rs. 500,000 and Rs. 1 million for the card, and up to Rs. 30 million through the larger Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme.
- Repayment Terms: Loans are interest-free and must be repaid over three years. The first 50% of the loan is available immediately, with a grace period of three months after receiving the card. After the grace period, monthly repayments begin at a minimum of 5% of the outstanding loan balance (principal portion).
The second half of the loan is released upon demonstrating satisfactory usage of the initial loan and meeting repayment criteria.
Required Documents for the Asaan Karobar Card Loan Application
When applying for the Asaan Karobar Card, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- CNIC and NTN (National Tax Number).
- Proof of Business Premises: Ownership or rental documentation.
- Bank Details: For loan disbursement.
Benefits of the Asaan Karobar Card
The Punjab Asaan Karobar Card provides multiple benefits, including:
- Interest-Free Loans: Financial support without the burden of high-interest rates.
- Flexible Repayment Options: Easy installment-based repayment terms over three years.
- Government Support: Additional government resources like subsidized land for businesses and solar systems for manufacturing units in export zones.
The PITB portal plays a crucial role in the application process, providing a seamless platform for applicants to submit their applications, pay processing fees, and track the status of their loan application. The PITB ensures that the application process is digital, transparent, and efficient, reducing delays and improving accessibility for business owners.
Contact Information and Helpline for the Asaan Karobar Card Scheme
For more details on the Asaan Karobar Loan Scheme or assistance with the application process, you can contact the following:
Helpline Number: 1786
Official Website: Asaan Karobar Finance
Success Stories of Entrepreneurs Benefiting from the Asaan Karobar Card
Many entrepreneurs have already benefited from the Punjab Asaan Karobar Card by securing the funding they need to start or expand their businesses. Success stories highlight how the scheme has helped women entrepreneurs, small manufacturers, and tech startups access vital capital for growth.
The Asaan Karobar Loan Scheme is not just a financial initiative; it’s a tool for economic empowerment, business growth, and long-term prosperity for Punjab’s SMEs. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, this is your opportunity to get the support you need to grow your business and contribute to the province’s economy.