Zero-interest loans empower Pakistani women for business success

WEB DESK: Women can now conveniently apply for a loan of up to Rs500,000 from the comfort of their homes through an online application, initiating the path towards enhanced employment opportunities.

Quratul Ain Bilal, Deputy Manager of the State Bank of Pakistan, highlighted the significant contributions of women in developed countries to the overall progress of the nation, emphasising their capabilities across various sectors alongside their male counterparts.

These remarks were made during an event organized by the Noor Muhammad Ansari Industrial School, Social Welfare Society, where Laiba Asif from the State Bank of Pakistan, Momina Anjum, and Fariha Safdar from Habib Bank, as well as Muhammad Arshad Qasmi, the General Secretary of Social Welfare Society, and a substantial number of women participated.

Deputy Manager Quratul Ain Bilal emphasised that, despite women constituting 48% of the country’s population, only a few are currently engaged in entrepreneurial endeavours.

He stressed the importance of women prioritising their businesses for the nation’s development, encouraging them to explore opportunities in the food and household agriculture sectors.

Such ventures not only empower women but also generate employment opportunities for many.

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Highlighting the significance of financial independence, Bilal urged women to open personal bank accounts.

Banks have established dedicated desks to facilitate this process, ensuring that women encounter no challenges when opening accounts, even from the comfort of their homes.

He underscored the importance of skill training, noting that women with expertise can establish home-based beauty parlours and handicraft centres, contributing to both personal growth and the overall economy.

Bilal concluded by affirming that providing easy credit is a top priority for the State Bank, fostering an environment conducive to women’s economic empowerment.