Punjab to Distribute Free Laptops – But There’s a Catch
The Punjab government has announced the launch of the Chief Minister’s Laptop Program 2024–25, under which 110,000 laptops will be distributed to students across the province. However, there’s an important requirement—students must undergo biometric verification to qualify.
According to an official notification from the Directorate of Public Instructions (Colleges), the scheme is aimed at students enrolled in public sector universities, colleges, and medical institutions.
To maintain transparency, the Higher Education Department is working in collaboration with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), which will carry out biometric thumb verification at designated e-Sahulat Centers.
The rollout begins with a first phase in which around 7,000 students from selected institutions will be awarded laptops at a special ceremony set for April 30, 2025. NADRA began offering verification services at these institutions starting April 24, 2025.