Ramesh Kumar, a hardworking young man from Union Council Samaro in District Umerkot, Sindh, lives in a joint family. As the eldest son, he shoulders the responsibility of supporting his parents, siblings, wife, and two school-going children. With limited resources, putting food on the table and ensuring his children’s education was a daily challenge.

Ramesh learned overlocking and pico stitching at a local tailoring centre and later established a small shop with a single machine, offering stitching services within his community. Although he worked tirelessly every day, his monthly income of PKR 12,000 was not enough to keep up with increasing household and educational expenses. Determined to expand his business but constrained by limited financial resources, Ramesh saw a new opportunity when he learned about the Prime Minister’s Interest Free Loan Programme, implemented by Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund through its partner organisations.

He applied and received Rs. 75,000, which enabled him to buy a second machine and employ his younger brother. This investment doubled his income to PKR 24,000. He now comfortably manages household expenses, repays his loan instalments, and contributes to a local savings committee.

What makes Ramesh’s story truly inspiring is that his journey didn’t just lift him out of financial instability—it also created employment within his family. “I proudly run my own business and support my family with dignity,” he says. “I have not only improved my livelihood but also helped my brother start his”.