FAISALABAD: In a significant step toward accelerating Punjab agriculture development, Provincial Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernizing the sector through research-driven reforms, financial inclusion, and advanced technology adoption. During his visit to the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), he emphasized that robust and tangible research work remains the backbone of long-term Punjab agriculture development, especially as climate pressures and food security challenges continue to rise.
Joined by Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo, Parliamentary Secretary Osama Laghari, and DG Agriculture Information Naveed Asmat, the minister met Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali and senior faculty to discuss future strategies. The discussions revolved around leveraging innovation, improving seed quality, promoting modern farming tools, and strengthening the bond between academia and the agricultural industry.
Boosting Productivity Through Investment, Technology and Microfinance
Highlighting the government’s ongoing initiatives, the minister noted that billions of rupees have been allocated under new microfinance schemes aimed at empowering small farmers, improving yields, and accelerating Punjab agriculture development. He added that the province is actively promoting modern seeders, residue management solutions, and farm mechanization in order to transition farmers away from traditional methods.
He urged UAF scientists to formulate projects addressing critical agricultural issues, including organic matter depletion, water scarcity, and climate-resilient cropping patterns. He also stressed that the newly established Foot and Mouth Disease Free Zone in Bahawalnagar is a major milestone for livestock improvement and overall Punjab agriculture development.
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Major Tractor Subsidy and Expansion of the Kisan Card Initiative
Reaffirming the government’s pro-farmer policies, Kirmani announced that 10,000 high-power tractors are being distributed across Punjab at subsidized rates to uplift mechanization standards and support Punjab agriculture development at the grassroots level. He praised the chief minister’s unwavering commitment to providing resources aimed at transforming farm operations.
He underscored that the Kisan Card is now a flagship agricultural platform, enabling millions of farmers to access subsidized inputs, loans, and government schemes seamlessly. This digital shift is expected to further strengthen Punjab agriculture development by improving transparency and financial accessibility.
UAF Praises Government Reforms and Expands Global Research Footprint
Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo described the wheat drive launched jointly by UAF and the Agriculture Extension Department as a landmark achievement for Punjab agriculture development. He urged scientists to prioritize real-world challenges faced by farmers and utilize modern technologies, including AI-based monitoring tools and climate-smart practices, to support sustainable growth.
UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali commended the government for introducing agricultural internship programs, wheat campaigns, and the Kisan package—initiatives that contribute directly to Punjab agriculture development. He highlighted the university’s expanding global partnerships, including the Pak-Korea Nutrition Centre, D-8 Research Centre, Confucius Institute, Center for Advanced Studies, and advanced seed laboratories. These institutions are playing a pivotal role in producing skilled manpower, conducting impactful research, and offering outreach programs that support farmers across Punjab.
