In the heart of Punjab, where the soil is rich and the people are hardworking, a quiet revolution has begun. The Government of Punjab has introduced a remarkable initiative through the Livestock and Dairy Development Department , a program designed to uplift the lives of women in South Punjab. The scheme focuses on empowering rural women by giving them livestock, training, and the opportunity to create their own small-scale dairy businesses.

This is not just a development project; it is a journey toward independence, confidence, and social change. Women who once depended entirely on others are now being given the tools to shape their futures with dignity and pride.

Why the Program Was Needed

For decades, the livestock sector has been one of the biggest sources of income for rural Punjab. Almost every village household owns at least one animal , whether it’s a cow, buffalo, or goat. However, most of the time, women handle livestock care without ever owning the animals themselves. They feed, clean, and milk them, but the profits rarely reach their hands.

The government recognized this imbalance and decided to launch a program that would change the equation , by giving women ownership and training. Through this initiative, thousands of rural women are now being given animals, free of cost, along with expert guidance on how to raise them efficiently and profitably.

The Vision Behind the Initiative

At the core of this project lies a powerful vision , to make women self-reliant through livestock farming. The idea is to help women earn steady incomes, support their families, and play an equal role in Punjab’s economy.

The scheme aims to:
• Reduce rural poverty through livestock entrepreneurship.
• Create sustainable income sources for women.
• Increase milk and meat production in Punjab.
• Develop modern livestock skills at the village level.
• Encourage community-based economic development.

By focusing on these goals, the government wants to transform South Punjab into a hub of small-scale livestock and dairy entrepreneurship, where women lead from the front.

How the Program Works

The implementation of this project is carefully structured. In its first phase, 4,870 women from 12 districts of South Punjab were selected after verification. Each beneficiary received two animals , either goats, cows, or buffaloes , depending on her local environment and needs. The animals are provided completely free of cost, and veterinary experts ensure that each one is healthy and vaccinated.

In 2025, the second phase of this program has been launched, targeting over 11,000 women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The process remains transparent, fair, and community-based.

Eligible women are identified through local livestock offices. The application process is simple , women can visit their nearest Livestock Department Office with their CNIC and proof of residence. Once registered, officials visit their homes for verification before final selection.

Districts Covered in the Scheme

To ensure balanced development, the government has focused on the most deserving areas of South Punjab where poverty levels are high and livestock farming is already common.

Region	Districts Covered	Beneficiary Women (Approx.)	Animals Distributed (Phase I & II)
Bahawalpur Division	Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan	1,200	2,400
D.G. Khan Division	Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Layyah, Muzaffargarh	1,800	3,600
Multan Division	Lodhran, Vehari, Khanewal	900	1,800
Sargodha Division	Bhakkar, Khushab, Mianwali	970	1,940

This transparent and data-based approach ensures that support reaches the women who need it the most.

Training and Capacity Building

What makes this program unique is that it doesn’t stop at giving animals , it also teaches women how to succeed. Every participant receives training on animal health, feeding, vaccination, and milk handling.

Experts from the Livestock and Dairy Development Department conduct practical workshops in each district. The training is offered in local languages, using simple demonstrations so even women with limited literacy can understand and apply the techniques.

They learn how to maintain milk hygiene, prevent animal diseases, manage breeding cycles, and use animal by-products efficiently. This knowledge empowers women not only to sustain their livestock but also to scale their small businesses over time

Real Impact on Rural Life

The results of the first phase have been extraordinary. Thousands of women who once struggled to make ends meet are now earning daily income from selling milk, butter, and yogurt. Some have even started supplying milk to local markets.

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One such example comes from Bahawalnagar, where a widow named Sajida Bibi received two goats under the program. Within months, her goats began producing milk, and she started selling it to her neighbors. Today, she earns enough to support her two children’s education and household needs. For Sajida, these animals were not just livestock , they were a symbol of dignity and independence.

Financial and Social Benefits

The economic ripple effect of this initiative is significant. By distributing animals and creating micro-entrepreneurs, the government is helping strengthen local economies. As more women earn money, they spend within their own communities , buying feed, supplies, and household goods , keeping the rural economy active.

Socially, the change is even deeper. Women who were once confined to domestic roles are now being seen as earners and decision-makers. In many households, men have started involving women in financial planning, recognizing their valuable contributions.

The project is quietly rewriting social norms , proving that economic empowerment is the foundation for social respect.

Applying for the Program

Women who wish to apply can visit their nearest Livestock Office. The process is simple and completely free. Applicants need only their CNIC, a copy of their electricity bill or proof of residence, and a short interview confirming their interest in livestock farming.

For additional information or guidance, the department has provided a 24/7 helpline (0800-09211), where trained representatives assist with application procedures and answer questions related to animal health and program eligibility.