Balochistan farmers: Askari Bank to extend loan on zero percent mark-up

ISLAMABAD: Askari Bank Limited has entered into a strategic collaboration with the Green Corporate Initiative (GCI) to support the development of Pakistan’s agriculture sector, with a focused commitment to uplifting underprivileged farmers in Balochistan through 0 percent mark-up agricultural financing up to PKR 3 Billion.

Under this initiative, Askari Bank and GCI will jointly extend short and long-term financing for both farm and non-farm agricultural activities. It will enhance productivity, strengthen rural livelihoods, and contribute to the national agricultural economy. By offering financing at 0 percent mark-up, the initiative seeks to provide meaningful financial relief to farming communities while enabling sustainable economic growth in the province.

Zia Ijaz, President & CEO, Askari Bank Limited, said, “At Askari Bank, we believe that meaningful financial inclusion is key to national progress. This collaboration with the Green Corporate Initiative reflects our commitment to uplifting underprivileged farming communities in Balochistan. By removing financial barriers and adopting innovative outreach models, we aim to strengthen livelihoods, enhance agricultural productivity, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.”

General Shahid Nazir (retd), CEO of Green Corporate Initiative (GCI), said, “Being a green field organisation, the main focus of the company is to promote agriculture by providing subsidised financial solutions to the bereaved and underserved farmer community for the betterment and to improve their livelihood. This collaborative effort will not only serve as a first step to support the agriculture segment of Balochistan but also contribute towards the economic growth of the province.”

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026