Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has announced the distribution of 40,000 Kisan Cards to farmers through 136 agriculture centers across the province. This is part of a major effort by the Punjab government to support farmers by providing them with loans ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh per acre for purchasing agricultural inputs. The initiative is aimed at improving the agriculture sector and raising the socio-economic status of farmers in the region.
Kisan Card Benefits | Details |
Number of Kisan Cards | 40,000 distributed initially |
Loan Amount | Rs 30,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh per acre |
Agriculture Centers | 136 centers in Punjab |
Launch Date for Kisan Card Use | October 15, 2024 |
Introduction of Kisan Cards for Farmers
The Kisan Card initiative was launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to provide financial support to farmers across Punjab. Farmers will be able to use these cards to purchase inputs for their wheat crops starting from October 15, 2024. This program is designed to help 500,000 farmers by providing them with easy access to loans. These loans, ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh per acre, will help farmers buy seeds, fertilizers, and other agricultural necessities.
This effort is part of a larger plan by the Punjab government to uplift the agricultural sector.
Agricultural Mall Pilot Project
Maryam Nawaz also announced the start of an Agricultural Mall Pilot Project in four districts of Punjab: Okara, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, and Sargodha. These malls will offer farmers various services, including access to seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural supplies. In addition, counseling services and loans will also be provided at these malls to ensure farmers get the necessary support to improve their yields.
The creation of these malls will help centralize agricultural resources, making it easier for farmers to access everything they need in one place.
Fresh Agriculture Graduates Internship Program
To further support the agriculture sector, the Punjab government has introduced an internship program for fresh agriculture graduates. Under this program, 1,000 graduates will be trained starting next week. These graduates will visit farms using geomapping technology and provide advice to farmers on how to improve their harvests. This internship program is intended to bring fresh ideas to farming practices and help farmers adopt modern techniques.
This initiative will not only benefit farmers but also provide valuable training to new graduates, helping them gain practical experience in the field.
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Green Tractor Scheme
As part of the ongoing efforts to support farmers, the Punjab government has launched the Green Tractor Scheme. Under this scheme, 10,000 tractors will be distributed to farmers across the province, with a subsidy of Rs 10 lakh provided for each tractor. The scheme will officially begin on September 20, 2024, and farmers will be able to apply for tractors at that time.
This scheme aims to increase mechanization in farming, which will help improve efficiency and productivity.
Tubewell Solarization Project
The Punjab government is also in the final stages of launching a Tubewell Solarization Project. This project will allow farmers to solarize their electric and diesel tubewells, helping them reduce energy costs. The government will cover 50% of the cost of solarizing the tubewells, making it more affordable for farmers to switch to solar energy.
By reducing reliance on traditional energy sources, this project will lower farming costs and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Conclusion
The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, is taking significant steps to support farmers through various initiatives such as the Kisan Card, Agricultural Mall Pilot Project, Green Tractor Scheme, and Tubewell Solarization Project. These projects are designed to boost the agriculture sector and provide financial assistance to farmers, helping them improve their yields and overall income. The government’s focus on agriculture is expected to bring about long-term benefits for the socio-economic development of Punjab’s farming community.
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