Punjab Province

Kasur: [Sadaf Arshad District Coordinator ReNews Pakistan]
The construction work of food courts in district kasur is nearing completion, receiving a positive response from the public. The project aims to provide better recreational facilities and quality dining options for citizens.
Under the supervision of deputy commissioner kasur Muhammad Asif Raza, several development projects are currently underway across the district, including the establishment of food courts. These initiatives are designed to improve public facilities and enhance service delivery for residents.
Public circles have appreciated the initiative, stating that such projects not only increase recreational opportunities but also support local businesses and contribute positively to the local economy.

Lahore | Rana Awais ReNews Pakistan
The Government of Punjab has launched the “Apna Khet Apna Rozgar” scheme aimed at economically empowering landless and underprivileged individuals by leasing state owned agricultural land for a period of 10 years. An official notification regarding the scheme was issued on April 16, 2026.
The initiative seeks to reduce poverty, promote agricultural development, and create employment opportunities for unemployed individuals across the province. According to officials, land allotment will be carried out through a transparent computerized balloting process.
Eligibility criteria state that applicants must be landless or own no more than a 10 marla residential plot. Applicants must also be permanent residents of the same revenue estate, verified through their CNIC address. Only one applicant per family is allowed, while government employees and individuals who have previously benefited from any government scheme are not eligible.
Under the scheme, up to 5 acres of land will be allocated per applicant at a nominal annual rent of Rs. 100 per acre. The land will strictly be used for agricultural purposes, and no permanent construction will be permitted. Ownership will remain with the government, and leaseholders will not have ownership rights, nor will they be allowed to transfer or mortgage the land.
Applications can be submitted online via the Punjab Land Record Authority (PLRA) website or at the office of the relevant Assistant Commissioner once the schedule is announced. Lists of successful applicants will be displayed on the website and at the Assistant Commissioner’s office.
Successful applicants must pay the first year’s rent within 30 days of taking possession, with subsequent payments due annually by January 15. Failure to begin cultivation within one year may result in lease cancellation. Additionally, monitoring committees will conduct inspections twice a year.
At the end of the lease period, the land must be returned to the government without any compensation for constructions made on it, although leaseholders may remove any structures built at their own expense.
Applicants whose requests are rejected may file an appeal with the Collector within seven days, while any disputes during the lease period can be taken to the Divisional Commissioner within 30 days.
The government will also provide special development grants to successful applicants to support agricultural activities. Authorities have warned that providing false information or violating the terms of the lease may lead to immediate cancellation.
The public has been advised to apply through the PLRA website or contact their respective Assistant Commissioner’s office in a timely manner to benefit from the scheme.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has revived the long delayed M12 Motorway project, declaring it a priority initiative to enhance regional connectivity and drive economic growth.
The motorway will link Sambrial, currently the endpoint of the Lahore/ Sialkot Motorway with Kharian, creating a vital connection within the country’s North South Motorway Network. The project is being advanced through coordinated efforts involving the Public Private Partnership Authority, National Highway Authority (NHA), and the Ministry of Communications.
According to an official update, the six lane motorway is expected to significantly reduce travel time on key routes while improving the movement of both commuters and commercial transport.
Officials say the project will play a crucial role in strengthening trade and logistics by connecting industrial hubs with major population centers. The improved infrastructure is also expected to support local businesses and stimulate broader economic activity across the region.