LAHORE: Punjab’s Apni Chhat Apna Ghar housing programme has been selected for the 2026 UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award, bringing international recognition to the province’s affordable housing initiative.
The programme, implemented through the Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency (PHATA), was selected following an international evaluation process. The Punjab government has been invited to receive the award during World Habitat Day activities scheduled for October 5, 2026, in Muscat, Oman.
Programme Recognised for Affordable Housing
According to the notification cited in local reporting, the initiative was recognised for its efforts to improve access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing for low-income households.
PHATA Director General Khwaja Muhammad Zeeshan Sikandar confirmed that the agency received official communication from UN-Habitat regarding the selection. Punjab had reportedly begun efforts in 2025 to have the programme considered for the international recognition.
The award highlights the programme’s focus on supporting households that may face difficulties accessing conventional housing finance.
Over Rs259 Billion in Interest-Free Loans Disbursed
The Apni Chhat Apna Ghar programme was launched in August 2024 as part of Punjab’s housing support initiatives.
Official figures reported as of September 10, 2026, show that interest-free housing loans worth approximately Rs259.68 billion had been disbursed to 200,072 applicants across the province.
The financing is intended to help eligible households build homes, providing an alternative to conventional interest-based borrowing.
Award Ceremony to Take Place in Muscat
Punjab government representatives are expected to receive the UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award in Muscat on October 5.
World Habitat Day activities will continue with workshops from October 6 to 8, providing a platform for participating organisations and housing stakeholders to exchange experiences and discuss approaches to affordable and sustainable housing.
UN-Habitat is also expected to provide travel and logistical support for the award recipient.
Significance for Punjab’s Housing Sector
The international recognition comes as Punjab continues to expand housing support for lower-income households. The programme’s large-scale loan disbursements indicate the level of demand for accessible housing finance across the province.
The award does not change the programme’s eligibility criteria or financing arrangements. Applicants and beneficiaries should continue to rely on official PHATA and Punjab government channels for information about applications, approvals, loan conditions, and future phases.
