Livestock Distribution Program Punjab: Empowering Rural Women with Free Cows and Buffaloes in 12 Districts
The Livestock Distribution Program in Punjab has become one of the most promising government initiatives in 2025, aiming to empower rural women and improve their livelihoods. The Government of Punjab has launched this program to provide free cows and buffaloes to eligible women across 12 selected districts. The scheme is designed to reduce poverty, enhance dairy production, and promote women’s participation in the agricultural economy.
Overview of the Livestock Distribution Program, Punjab
The Punjab Livestock Department, under the direction of the Chief Minister, introduced the Livestock Distribution Program to support low-income families, especially women who depend on agriculture and livestock for their daily income. Through this scheme, thousands of women are expected to receive livestock, including high-yield dairy cows and buffaloes, completely free of cost. The purpose is not only to provide immediate economic relief but also to ensure long-term income generation and food security.
This program is part of the broader effort to strengthen the province’s rural economy by giving women more control over their financial well-being. The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable development through empowerment and self-reliance.
Target Districts for the Program
Initially, the program was launched in 12 major districts of Punjab, which have been identified based on their agricultural and livestock potential. These districts include:
Bahawalpur
Bahawalnagar
Multan
Muzaffargarh
Lodhran
Rahim Yar Khan
Layyah
Dera Ghazi Khan
Rajanpur
Bhakkar
Mianwali
Okara
Each district will have designated centers for livestock distribution, where eligible women can collect their allocated animals after proper verification.
Eligibility Criteria for Free Livestock
The Livestock Distribution Program, Punjab has specific eligibility conditions to ensure that only deserving families benefit from this scheme. The eligibility requirements include:
Applicants must be female residents of Punjab living in rural areas.
The family’s income should fall below the poverty line as defined by the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP).
The woman should possess a valid CNIC and must be registered with the local livestock department or BISP database.
Preference will be given to widows, divorced women, and women with children who have no stable source of income.
The applicant must have a suitable space for keeping and maintaining the livestock.
Verification will be conducted through NADRA and BISP databases to ensure transparency in the selection process.
Registration Process – Step-by-Step Guide
Women who meet the eligibility criteria can apply through the official Punjab Livestock Department website or visit their nearest Tehsil Livestock Office. Here’s how the process works:
Visit the Livestock Punjab online portal.
Enter your CNIC number to check eligibility status.
Fill out the application form with personal and household details.
Submit required documents, including proof of income and residence.
Once approved, you’ll receive an SMS confirmation with the distribution date and location.
For those without internet access, physical registration centers have been established in every tehsil.
Benefits of the Livestock Distribution Program
The program offers several long-term advantages for rural women:
Economic empowerment: Women can earn income through milk sales and livestock breeding.
Food security: Access to milk and dairy products improves family nutrition.
Employment generation: Families can create small-scale dairy businesses.
Women empowerment: The scheme promotes independence and confidence among rural women.
Sustainable agriculture: By promoting livestock rearing, the program supports agricultural sustainability.
Moreover, the Punjab government is offering free veterinary services, feed assistance, and vaccination programs to ensure the health and productivity of distributed livestock.
Future Goals and Expansion
The government plans to expand the Livestock Distribution Program Punjab to all 36 districts by the end of 2026, depending on its success in the initial phase. This expansion will include not only cows and buffalo but also goats and poultry for small-scale farmers.
The initiative aims to create a self-sustaining cycle of income for women and contribute to the overall agricultural GDP of the province. With proper monitoring, training, and veterinary support, the program has the potential to transform rural livelihoods in Punjab.
Conclusion
The Livestock Distribution Program in Punjab is a landmark step toward empowering rural women and strengthening the agricultural sector. By providing free cows and buffaloes, the government is helping women take charge of their financial future and contribute to Pakistan’s rural development. For many families, this program is more than just support — it’s a lifeline toward stability, dignity, and independence.
