LAHORE, Feb 16 (APP): People-friendly governments always play a vital role in fostering employment and business opportunities for the youth to bring about positive social change for economic development.
In today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, job creation is a cornerstone for economic growth, poverty alleviation, and social stability. Therefore, governments always come up with out-of-the-box solutions and various ways and means to create an enabling environment by launching initiatives that support entrepreneurship, skill-development, and business opportunities.
The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has a history of launching initiatives to create employment and business opportunities, particularly in Punjab. The youth employment scheme has proved instrumental in provision of internships and training to young graduates to enhance their professional skills.
In order to empower people, especially the youth of the province in the first month of the year 2025, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz has allocated Rs. 132 billion for its two initiatives: Rs. 84bln for the Punjab Easy Business Finance Scheme, and Rs. 48bln for the Punjab Easy Business Card scheme.
Although the key initiative aimed at youth empowerment in the country is the Prime Minister’s Youth Business Scheme, which offers financing and skill development programs. The scheme provides low-interest loans ranging from Rs. 0.5 million to Rs. 7.5 million for individuals aged 18 to 45, helping young entrepreneurs establish their businesses and enhance their employability.
The Punjab Easy Business Finance Scheme, worth Rs. 84 billion, will offer over Rs. 36 billion in interest-free loans. This program is designed to support men, women, transgender individuals, and persons with disabilities aged 25 to 55 in Punjab. The Punjab Easy Business Card Scheme, valued at Rs. 48 billion, further extends financial assistance to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Another notable initiative is the e-bike scheme, aimed at improving student mobility. The Punjab government has already distributed 20,000 electric bikes and scooters to students in both public and private educational institutions.
In the next phase, nearly 100,000 more e-bikes will be distributed, further facilitating students’ transportation needs. With these great initiatives, the Punjab government continues to take significant steps towards fostering economic growth, reducing unemployment, and empowering the youth to build a prosperous future.
The Punjab government has also announced provision of free bikes to orphan students, ensuring that even those with underprivileged backgrounds could benefit from the initiative.
Expressing her gratitude for the government’s efforts, Fatima Dilawar, a student at a private college, shared how the e-bike scheme transformed her daily commute. Previously relying on public transport for her journey from Sheranwala Gate to Raiwind Road, she described the initiative as a life-changing gift that made her routine more convenient and comfortable.
Highlighting the broader impact of youth-focused initiatives, Prof. Dr. Sajid Hussain, Head of the Mass Communication Department at Superior University Lahore, stated the Punjab government’s commitment to foster economic growth through job creation and entrepreneurship.
He noted that investments in key sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, education, and technology are laying the foundation for a dynamic job market. According to him, Punjab has set a benchmark for regional development, creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By addressing unemployment through skill development program, the government is working towards a sustainable economic future with increased job opportunities for all.
Mehmood Arvi, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Gilgit-Baltistan Affairs of the Pak-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), highlighted the critical role of such initiatives in overcoming economic challenges. He enlisted various government efforts aimed at fostering employment and business growth, noting their significant contribution to economic innovation and stability.
Arvi pointed out that the government’s support for SMEs — through financial assistance, tax incentives, and a simplified regulatory framework has enabled businesses to thrive, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, technology, and agriculture. He said that these initiatives are not only stabilizing the economy but also empowering local businesses to compete globally. He said the government’s focus on vocational training and skills development program, which equip young people with marketable skills, enhancing their employability.
He said that establishment of business incubators, innovation hubs, and startup accelerators have provided young entrepreneurs with essential resources, mentorship, and capital, enabling them to start and scale their businesses.
These initiatives, he said, are not only generating employment but also contributing to the development of a more diverse and resilient economy. With these targeted initiatives, the Punjab government continues to pave the way for youth empowerment, economic growth, and long-term prosperity in the region.
APP/frd/taj (APP Feature Service)