Lahore, 5 October, 2026 (Nosheen): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has received the prestigious UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award in Oman in recognition of the Punjab government’s flagship housing initiative, Apni Chhat Apna Ghar. The international award recognises the programme’s efforts to help eligible residents secure affordable homes across the province. Launched on August 21, 2024, the initiative is being implemented over a period of four and a half years and primarily focuses on low-income families living in rented accommodation or informal settlements. Senior Punjab government officials welcomed the recognition, describing it as a significant honour for Pakistan and an acknowledgement of the efforts behind the housing programme. Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said the award represented global recognition of Maryam Nawaz’s vision and efforts to provide ordinary families with secure housing, dignity and greater economic stability. She said more than 200,000 homes had already been delivered across Punjab through the initiative, adding that the programme was transforming lives by providing families with greater security and opportunities. The Apni Chhat Apna Ghar programme aims to enable eligible people to own affordable houses and apartments and address the housing challenges faced by families without permanent homes. Punjab Education Minister Sikandar Hayat also welcomed the honour and highlighted the role of Housing Minister Bilal Yaseen in implementing the chief minister’s vision. He said the award recognised the commitment, dedication and responsibility involved in delivering the programme and turning the housing vision into reality.