PM raises Youth Loan limit to Rs25 million, allocates Rs292 billion for 2026-27
Lahore (Agencies): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has increased the maximum financing limit under the Prime Minister’s Youth Business and Agriculture Loan Schemes from Rs7.5 million to Rs25 million, with Rs292 billion earmarked for lending to young entrepreneurs during the fiscal year 2026-27.
Chairing a meeting on Sunday to review the implementation of the two schemes, the prime minister directed authorities to expand access to business and agricultural financing, reduce eligibility barriers and improve support for young entrepreneurs.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz also directed that the minimum age for obtaining loans under the programmes be reduced from 21 to 18 years, enabling younger individuals to start businesses and participate in agricultural activities.
The prime minister further instructed authorities to reserve 30% of loans for women to promote their economic independence and participation in entrepreneurial activities.
The revised financing limit of Rs25 million represents an increase of more than three times from the previous ceiling of Rs7.5 million. The loans will be provided through easy instalments, the statement said.
During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister that 581,341 young people had received loans since January 2023, while cumulative disbursements under the schemes had reached Rs313.9 billion.
The briefing also projected that 266,700 young people would receive loans worth Rs292 billion during 2026-27.
Shehbaz directed the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with business-startup guidance, consultancy and technical assistance alongside financing.
He also called for a nationwide awareness campaign to inform young people about the schemes, available financing opportunities and government support.
The prime minister said the government was committed to empowering young people, utilising their potential and creating opportunities for dignified and productive employment.
Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Youth Affairs Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Talha Barqi attended the meeting.