Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Chief Minister of Punjab, has made significant progress in transforming Pakistan’s agriculture. On behalf of the Government of Punjab, she recently launched Phase 2 of the Agricultural Support Programme, allocating a massive Rs. 100 billion for the benefit of farmers, especially small-scale and marginalised cultivators.
This new phase is expected to play a critical role in improving agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and strengthening the rural economy of Punjab, the breadbasket of Pakistan.
Background: Punjab’s Agricultural Landscape
Agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, and Punjab accounts for a significant portion of the country’s total crop production. However, due to increasing input costs, outdated farming practices, and climate challenges, many farmers in the region struggle to maintain profitability. Recognising this, Maryam Nawaz initiated a multi-phase agricultural support project, with Phase 1 already yielding positive results. Phase 2 is currently set to enhance the positive effects of the project.
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Key Features of Phase 2 – Rs. 100 Billion Support Program
1. Massive Financial Allocation
The Punjab government has committed Rs. 100 billion in funding to support farmers under various categories, aiming to bring revolutionary improvements in agricultural practices, financial assistance, and technological advancement.
2. Focus on Small and Medium Farmers
Small and medium-scale farmers are the main focus of this program. Often, these makers don’t have access to the tools they need to update their methods. The government will provide them with easy access to tools, training, and financial aid to bridge this gap.
3. Provision of Modern Farming Equipment
Farmers will be provided with modern and mechanised farming tools at subsidised rates, including:
- Tractors
- Laser land levelers
- Seeders and harvesters
- Solar-powered tube wells
- Drip irrigation systems
This will make food production more effective while also taking less time and work.
4. Interest-Free Loans for Farmers
A major part of this phase includes the distribution of interest-free agricultural loans. With these loans, farmers will be able to buy good seeds, fertilisers, and chemicals without taking on too much debt at high interest rates.
Loans will be made available through a simple, digitalised process, ensuring transparency and quick disbursement.
5. Subsidies on Inputs
Direct assistance will be given to farmers for things they need, like
- Certified seeds
- Fertilizers
- Pesticides
This will make it easier for farmers to afford quality products that can improve crop yield and reduce losses.
6. Digital Kisan Card System
To ensure efficient delivery of financial support and other services, a Digital Kisan Card system will be implemented. Each registered farmer will receive a smart card that they can use for the following purposes:
- Apply for subsidies
- Track loan status
- Register complaints
- Access government schemes
This step will cut down on cheating and get rid of middlemen.
7. Farmer Training and Education
Recognising the importance of knowledge, the government will also launch training and awareness programmes for farmers on:
- Modern farming techniques
- Organic farming
- Climate-smart agriculture
- Pest and water management
Agricultural extension workers will be deployed across districts to guide farmers on the ground.
8. Promotion of Climate-Resilient Agriculture
With increasing challenges posed by climate change, a portion of the funds will be directed toward:
- Drought-resistant crop varieties
- Efficient water use systems
- Greenhouse farming models
This makes sure that Punjabi farmland will be around for a long time.
Expected Impact of Phase 2
The Punjab government expects the following results from the Rs. 100 billion agricultural programme:
| Target Area | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|
| Crop Yields | 25% increase in major crop production |
| Financial Relief | 40% cost reduction for small farmers |
| Mechanization | 30,000+ machines distributed |
| Employment Generation | 100,000+ rural jobs created |
| Climate Resilience | 200,000+ acres shifted to smart irrigation |
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Transparency and Monitoring
To ensure proper use of public funds, a real-time monitoring system will track the progress of each project component. A helpline and a complaint management system will also be launched for farmers to report issues.
The Chief Minister has assured that there will be zero tolerance for corruption and misuse of funds. Third-party audits and public dashboards will be used for accountability.
A Vision for the Future
Maryam Nawaz is committed to giving farmers more power, and she does more than just give them short-term cash help. Her vision is to create a self-sustaining agricultural ecosystem in Punjab that:
- Embraces innovation
- Supports rural development
- Ensures food security
- Boosts exports through surplus production
Final Words
The launch of Phase 2 of the Rs. The 100 Billion Agricultural Support Program is a landmark achievement in Punjab’s rural development journey. With strong leadership, a farmer-centric approach, and transparent governance, this initiative is expected to uplift thousands of farming families and transform agriculture into a modern, productive, and sustainable sector.
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