LAHORE, 14 October, 2026 (Ghufran): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched the second phase of the Livestock Card scheme, offering interest-free loans worth Rs16.2 billion to farmers to support livestock-related activities and strengthen the province’s agricultural economy. According to the briefing, the first phase of the scheme achieved a loan repayment rate of 96 percent, reflecting a high level of repayment among beneficiaries. Under Phase II, farmers will receive Rs27,000 per animal, while 25 percent of the loan amount will be available for withdrawal in cash through ATMs. The initiative aims to facilitate livestock farmers, improve productivity and support the growth of the livestock sector across Punjab. The briefing also revealed that agreements had been reached to export meat to Saudi Arabia, China, Azerbaijan and European markets, opening new opportunities for the province’s meat industry. Punjab’s meat exports increased by $96 million over the course of one year, highlighting the sector’s growing export potential. The provincial government aims to further strengthen livestock farming, facilitate farmers through interest-free financing and expand access to international markets.