Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed the authorities concerned to take steps to grant interest-free small and medium loans to encourage business activities in the province.

Under the scheme, loans ranging from Rs100,000 to Rs1 million will be provided to small business owners. This scheme is designed to offer loans of up to Rs30 million over five years.

She instructed the authorities to propose separate zones for small and medium industries in big cities. Under the plan, the loans will have to be repaid in five years. The government mentioned that the business card will not be applicable for payment in 10 fields, including restaurants. However, it will be provided on priority basis for IT startups in the Nawaz Sharif IT City.

The Chief Minister underscored the significance of these initiatives, which would generate employment opportunities and promote growth in the province’s business and industrial sectors.