Asaan Karobar Card Scheme Zero Interest Business Loans for Small Enterprises in Punjab
The Punjab government has launched the Asaan Karobar Card initiative to empower small-scale business owners and budding entrepreneurs. The scheme offers zero-interest loans of up to Rs. 1 million to eligible applicants, enabling applicants to manage, expand, or establish their businesses with ease through secure digital tools.
Core Benefits of the Program
- Maximum Loan Amount: Rs. 1,000,000
- Total Loan Term: 3 years
- Credit Type: Revolving facility for the initial 12 months
- Repayment Plan: 24 monthly installments (beginning after the grace period)
- Grace Period: 3 months from the date of card disbursement
- Markup Rate: 0% (completely interest-free)
Permissible Uses of Funds
- Paying business suppliers and vendors
- Covering utility bills, government charges, and tax dues
- Withdrawing up to 25% of the loan for essential business expenses
- Making transactions via mobile applications or point-of-sale systems
Note: The loan must strictly be used for business operations. Spending on personal or leisure-related items is not permitted.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- Age must be between 21 and 57 years.
- Permanent resident of Punjab
- A valid CNIC and an active mobile number in their name
- Operate or intend to start a business within Punjab.
- Possess a clean repayment history with no overdue loans.
- Pass credit and psychometric evaluations.
- Only one application is allowed per individual or business.
Application Process
- Submit your application online on the official portal: https://akc.punjab.gov.pk/cmpunjabfinance
- Pay a processing fee of Rs. 500 (non-refundable)
- Upload required documents and CNIC digitally.
- Official teams will verify your identity, credit profile, and business premises.
Loan Utilization and Repayment Structure
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| First 6 Months | Access up to 50% of your total approved loan amount |
| After 3 Months | Begin making monthly payments (minimum 5% of the current principal) |
| Second 50% of Loan | Released after consistent repayments and registration with PRA/FBR |
| Final 2 Years | Repay the remaining balance in fixed monthly installments |
Fees
- Annual Fee: Rs. 25,000 + FED (deducted from the loan itself)
- Other Costs: Life insurance, card issuance, and delivery are provided at no extra charge
- Late Payment Charges: Will apply as per the bank’s program of charges
Security Measures and Verification Process
- A personal assurance must be digitally marked by the applicant.
- Life assurance is automatically included in the scheme.
- A physical inspection of the business site will be carried out by the Urban Unit within six months of loan approval.
Additional Help for Applicants
- Feasibility report templates and business planning tools are available at the official BOP and PSIC websites to support startups.
- Need help? Dial the official helpline: 1786
