Key Takeaways
- Punjab’s Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Programme selected for UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award.
- Programme disbursed Rs 259.68 billion in interest-free loans to 200,072 low-income households.
- Award ceremony to take place on October 5 in Muscat, Oman.
Punjab’s flagship housing initiative, the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar Programme (ACAGP), has been honoured by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) with the Scroll of Honour Award. This recognition comes after a competitive global evaluation and highlights the programme’s significant impact on expanding access to safe, adequate, and affordable housing for low-income families.
The Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency received the official notification from UN-Habitat, inviting the provincial government to attend the award ceremony on October 5, during World Habitat Day celebrations in Muscat, Oman. The award notification, signed by UN Under-Secretary-General and UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Marinheiro Centeno Rossbach, praised the programme’s achievements and provided logistical support for the recipient’s participation.
Launched in August 2024, the ACAGP has already made substantial progress, disbursing interest-free loans worth Rs 259.68 billion to 200,072 applicants across Punjab as of September 10, 2026. This financial assistance has enabled a significant number of low-income households to secure safe and adequate housing, marking a crucial step towards improving living conditions in the province.
The programme’s success is attributed to its focus on providing affordable housing solutions to those in need. By offering interest-free loans, the ACAGP has not only alleviated financial burdens but also empowered individuals and families to build or improve their homes. This initiative stands out for its comprehensive approach, addressing the housing needs of a wide range of low-income households.
The award ceremony, scheduled for October 5, will be a significant milestone for the ACAGP. It will provide an opportunity for provincial officials to showcase the programme’s achievements and inspire further initiatives in the realm of affordable housing. The UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award is a prestigious recognition that underscores the programme’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development.
