QUETTA, Jan 22: Grant of micro loans to women in Balochistan is on the rise and the Khushhali Bank has disbursed Rs250 million among them. This was said by the bank’s president, Ghalib Nishtar, while speaking at the launching ceremony of a development project in Gwadar.

“The bank provides access to sustainable microfinance services to the poor and assists them in enhancing their income earning capacity,” he said.

“Women’s role is critical to economic development, particularly in rural areas and especially due to their significant contribution within the household,” he added.

According to Mr Nishtar, the Khushhali Bank, the largest microfinance bank in the country, has been gradually expanding its services in Balochistan.

It has covered 11 districts in the province and is providing services to its clients through branches in Barkhan, Zhob, Loralai, Pishin, Quetta, Mastung, Sibi, Jafferabad, Naseerabad, Sanjawi, and Gwadar.

The bank has prioritized its investment in strengthening services catering to women and intends to launch a vocational skill enhancement project for the Gwadar area.—APP