Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the good news for the farmers that seeds and fertilizers including other agricultural inputs for wheat crop will be provided at cheap prices. He said that there will be a significant increase in the production of rice in Punjab, which is expected to increase the export of one billion dollars. With this step, the economic condition of the farmers will improve and a new chapter of development will open in Punjab’s agriculture.
Wheat production in Punjab is expected to increase by 30 percent, and cultivation of wheat on government land has been mandated. Maryam Nawaz Sharif said in a special meeting that the use of modern technology and scientific methods is necessary to increase agricultural production. This step will reduce the labor of the farmers and significantly improve the production.
Also Read: Latest 8171 Web Portal Update 2024: Check BISP 10500 Payment Status Online Now!
Cheap Seeds, Green Tractor Program, and Kisan Card Updates
While giving a briefing regarding Kisan Card in the meeting, it was informed that lakhs of Kisan Cards have been issued across Punjab and the registration process is going on. Kisan Card is providing transparency and convenience in agricultural assistance to the farmers. Along with this, 9500 tractors will be drawn under the Maryam Nawaz Sharif Green Tractor Program out of 1.5 lakh applicants which will greatly facilitate the farmers.
To further promote agricultural production in Punjab, 993 agriculture graduates have been deputed to guide the farmers. Seasonless cultivation of tomato and onion is being done on 12 thousand acres in Punjab and 10% increase in production is expected. Additionally, 82 farmer groups have been registered for corporate farming which will lead to modernization and development in agriculture.
Also Read: Punjab Green Tractor Scheme Announces Draw Result Now Get 10 lakh Subsidy
Increase in Rice Production and Export Potential
Punjab is set to increase its rice exports, with expectations to reach $5 billion this year, up from $4 billion last year. The surge in rice production is expected to contribute an additional $1 billion in exports, creating substantial opportunities for both farmers and the economy. This boost in rice production reflects the government’s commitment to expanding cultivated land and maximizing yield potential.
Wheat Production and Mandatory Cultivation
There is a significant push to increase wheat production, with a targeted 30% growth forecasted for this season. In a bid to achieve this goal, the Punjab government has made wheat cultivation mandatory on all government-owned farmland. By making essential agricultural resources available at lower costs, the government aims to support farmers in enhancing wheat yield and meeting local food demands.
Also read: Check Chief Minister Punjab Green Tractor Scheme Balloting Results Now
Expansion of the Kisan Card Scheme
In the meeting, officials provided a detailed update on the progress of the Kisan Card scheme, which has already registered over 1.1 million farmers in Punjab. So far, more than 417,000 Kisan Cards have been printed, with around 300,000 cards already distributed to farmers.
Over 296,000 Kisan Cards have been activated, allowing farmers to access direct support and subsidies. In addition, Punjab has registered 2,600 dealers across the province to streamline distribution and ensure that all farmers can benefit from the program.
CM Green Tractor Program for Small and Medium-Scale Farmers
The CM Green Tractor Program has attracted 1.5 million applications, with a planned draw to distribute 9,500 tractors among the applicants. This initiative supports farmers in acquiring tractors at subsidized rates, further easing the cost of production.
Among those who applied, 64% are small-scale farmers with up to 5 acres of land, 28% have landholdings of up to 12.5 acres, and 8% own land up to 50 acres, ensuring equitable access to resources for farmers of varying scales.
Agricultural Graduates and Construction of Agri Malls
To ensure effective guidance, 993 agricultural graduates are actively assisting farmers across Punjab in adopting best practices for crop cultivation. In addition to expert support, four Agri Malls are under construction, aimed at centralizing resources and providing a one-stop solution for farmers to access essential farming inputs, modern equipment, and advisory services.
Off-Season Cultivation of Tomatoes and Onions
The Punjab government has also allocated 2,200 acres for the off-season cultivation of tomatoes and onions, with 1,762 acres already planted with tomatoes. The government anticipates a 10% increase in yield from these off-season crops, as well as a 5% rise in the total area dedicated to tomato and onion farming. In a significant move toward corporate farming, 82 farmer groups have been registered, promoting collaborative efforts and ensuring the consistent supply of fresh produce across the region.
Also read: KPK Government Decision to Issue Taleemi Card on Health Card style, 40,000 Children to Benefit
Subsidized Super Seeders to Boost Wheat Yield
As part of its efforts to improve crop yields, the Punjab government has provided 737 super seeders at subsidized rates to farmers. These modern seeders are designed to help farmers plant wheat efficiently, maximizing the output while reducing labor and time costs.
Conclusion
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announcement brings fresh hope to Punjab’s farming community, with initiatives focused on affordable resources, technological advancement, and expanded cultivation efforts. These measures aim to strengthen the agricultural backbone of Punjab, making it easier for farmers to boost productivity and ensure food security. The special package not only benefits individual farmers but also contributes to the province’s economic growth by enhancing agricultural exports and sustaining long-term development in the sector.