Manzoor Khan In a historic move for Punjab’s agricultural sector, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif launched the largest-ever Kisan Card Program, allocating Rs. 400 billion to uplift farmers. This Kisan Card Program introduces 10 initiatives for farmers, completed in a record six months, including Rs. 150 billion in funding for Kisan Cards.
At a ceremony in Hafizabad, the CM personally distributed Kisan Cards, announcing plans to increase the number of beneficiaries from 500,000 to 750,000. She also introduced new resources to support farmers, including free laser levelers for those cultivating 12.5 to 25 acres of wheat and free tractors for those with larger farms. To further ease costs, the government will provide agricultural machinery for rent at zero profit and expand the network of Kisan Card dealers to 3,000.
Supporting Farmers and Boosting Agriculture
Addressing the event, CM Maryam emphasized the importance of agriculture in Punjab’s economy and pledged her commitment to increase wheat cultivation while lowering input costs. She acknowledged that inflated electricity bills reduce farmers’ profits and committed to addressing this issue, aiming for a more prosperous and self-reliant agricultural sector through initiatives like the Kisan Card Program.
She stated, “PML-N has always delivered tangible support for farmers, not just empty promises. I am dedicated to ensuring affordable bread and flour while also securing fair profits for our farmers.”
Innovations for Sustainable Growth
The CM announced the solarization of 7,000 diesel and electric tube wells to reduce farmers’ operational costs and committed to actively monitoring flour prices to prevent inflation. For the first time, the government is purchasing wheat directly from farmers, bypassing middlemen to ensure fair compensation. The Kisan Card Program is a vital step in this direction, making resources accessible directly to farmers.
With Punjab undergoing rapid changes, CM Maryam expressed optimism about the province’s transformation. “When there is progress in the country, prosperity follows. We’re working day and night to uplift farmers and reduce inflation,” she remarked, highlighting the significance of the Kisan Card Program in achieving these goals.
Commitment to Quality and Transparency
Provincial Agriculture Minister Ashiq Hussain Kirmani praised the CM’s decision to increase the agriculture budget by 250%. This commitment is part of the broader efforts under the Kisan Card Program to tackle issues like fake seeds and fertilizers by confiscating Rs. 25 crore worth of counterfeit products. Farmers are encouraged to report such issues on a designated helpline to ensure a fair market.
A Celebration of Farmers
The ceremony featured a traditional Luddi dance and a documentary on the CM’s farmer-friendly initiatives. Farmers can now use their Kisan Cards to purchase seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides at subsidized rates, empowering them to increase their yields sustainably. The Kisan Card Program aims to provide these essential resources to enhance agricultural productivity.
In conclusion, the Kisan Card Program represents a significant advancement in Punjab’s approach to supporting farmers, ensuring they have the necessary tools and resources to thrive. The government’s dedication to farmer welfare schemes marks a promising future for agriculture in the region.
