Punjab has announced major steps under its agriculture reforms to support farmers, modernize farming, and increase production. The initiatives focus on young talent, technology, and better market access.
The Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz, approved the inclusion of agriculture interns in the “Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar” programme. She also increased their monthly stipend to Rs70,000. This move encourages more youth to join farming and gain practical experience.
Punjab is expanding its export potential. Officials reported that potato growers secured orders exceeding 500,000 tonnes. This highlights the growing demand for Punjab’s agricultural produce worldwide.
The province is also launching a “Rooftop Hydroponic” project. For the first time in Punjab, farmers can grow 280 to 350 plants on a two-marla rooftop using polythene sheets and special structures. This system allows cultivation of more than ten types of vegetables. Experts predict it can increase production up to 32 times. Ten pilot projects will start in Lahore, with plans to involve housing societies.
Punjab agriculture reforms also focus on renewable energy. The CM approved solarization of 10,000 diesel tube wells. She also set a target to distribute 28,000 super seeders among farmers by 2028.
Water management receives special attention. The “On-Farm Rain Harvesting” project will channel rainwater into aquifers using ground recharge wells. In Lahore, Gujranwala, and Gujrat, officials are providing Rs500,000 subsidy for 1,000 wells. Additionally, 70 percent subsidy is available for 1,000 on-farm rain harvesting ponds.
Mechanization is another key part of Punjab agriculture reforms. Under the CM Punjab High-Tech Mechanisation Programme, 6,500 farmers will receive modern agricultural machines by 2028. These include 500 wheat harvesters, 1,000 rice harvesters, 1,000 maize and silage harvesters, 2,000 transplanters and balers, and 2,000 high-horsepower tractors.
Phase IV of the Green Tractor Programme also received approval. The CM announced Rs1.5 million subsidy for high-horsepower tractors and increased the subsidy for low-horsepower tractors from Rs500,000 to Rs700,000.
Punjab is transforming land use too. Under the “Transformation of Agriculture in Thal” initiative, seven million acres of land are becoming cultivable. In Potohar, 400 mini-dams have already been completed, improving irrigation and water storage.
Market access is improving as well. Model Agriculture Malls in Multan, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, and Sargodha achieved record sales of Rs462 million. Home delivery is available within a 50km radius. The agriculture internship programme ensures direct outreach to 1.5 million farmers.
The CM also directed officials to include more farmers in the Kisan Card scheme. She praised the 98 percent loan recovery rate, showing strong financial discipline.
Overall, Punjab agriculture reforms aim to modernize farming, improve productivity, and increase farmers’ incomes. With better technology, water management, market access, and youth participation, Punjab is taking bold steps to strengthen its agricultural sector.
