The Punjab government has announced a transformative plan to revolutionize agriculture, solar energy, and the industrial Punjab Launches sectors, aiming for sustainable growth and economic development.
Major Agricultural Reforms
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the provision of 10,000 tractors to farmers by February 28 and an additional 2,000 super seeders at subsidized rates by March. These initiatives are designed to enhance agricultural productivity and support farmers across the province.
Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb made this announcement during a high-level review meeting evaluating the performance of key ministries, including agriculture, energy, and industry. The meeting assessed the progress of the Annual Development Program (ADP) over the past six months.
Boosting Solar Energy Initiatives
A major decision was made to accelerate the free solar energy scheme for Punjab’s citizens. Additionally, the government has committed to converting all government buildings to solar energy, with the renewable energy project set to be completed by June 2025. An additional Rs 6 billion has been allocated to expand solar energy projects across the province.
Among the notable solar initiatives, progress was reviewed on projects for Punjab Assembly, the Institute of Cardiology, and other major departments. A dedicated fund for electricity generation from waste is expected to be finalized by March.
Agriculture and Citrus Industry Revamp
To support the agricultural sector, the government has announced a comprehensive program for restoring and developing citrus fruit production, particularly oranges and kinnow. Model agricultural markets will also be established across Punjab to provide better facilities to farmers and boost exports.
Over 5,000 farmers have already received the Chief Minister Kisan Card, and preparations for the Kharif crop are complete. The government has also directed agricultural research through universities to introduce modern and innovative farming techniques.
Industrial Expansion and Infrastructure Development
In a move to strengthen Punjab’s industrial landscape, the government has:
- Set a March deadline for completing the “Garments Cities” project.
- Acquired land for a 300-acre Industrial and Technology Park in Narowal.
- Initiated feasibility studies for a Technology University in Kasur.
- Finalized plans for doubling biogas production and setting up fertilizer plants.
- Implemented a division-wise monitoring system to train farmers in modern farming methods.
- Expedited the recruitment of agricultural inspectors.
A Decade of Transformative Leadership
Maryam Aurangzeb highlighted that over the past 10 years, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has introduced landmark projects for the agricultural sector. The briefing revealed that Rs 8 billion has already been invested in agricultural development schemes, and 4,500 tractors have been distributed under the Green Tractor Scheme. Super seeders were also provided in Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sargodha, and Lahore divisions during the first phase.
Additionally, progress on the Ujala Program, a solar energy initiative in central Punjab, was reviewed.
