LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Agriculture Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani has announced that the provincial government is distributing 10,000 high-power tractors to farmers on a substantial subsidy. Each tractor is being subsidized by Rs 1 million under a programme worth Rs 10 billion.

Speaking at the Chief Minister Punjab high-power green tractor distribution ceremony in Okara, the minister said that 679 tractors are being allocated to Sahiwal Division, including 280 for Okara district. He added that applications for the subsidized provision of another 10,000 green tractors will be invited soon.

He stated that the Punjab Kisan Card has become the government’s flagship initiative through which more than 700,000 farmers have received over Rs 250 billion in interest-free loans, contributing to significant progress in the agriculture sector.

The minister also handed over keys of tractors to the successful applicants. Later, chairing a review meeting on wheat cultivation at the deputy commissioner’s office, the minister said that Punjab has set a target of 16.5 million acres for wheat cultivation in the current season. Calling wheat “essential for national food security,” he directed concerned officials to ensure 100 percent completion of the cultivation target in Sahiwal Division by December 5.

The minister revealed that the provincial agriculture department is providing Rs 900,000 subsidy per super seeder, and that, for the first time during the Rabi season, fertilizers are available in abundance at prices below the official rates.

The agriculture minister also announced the launch of wheat production competitions, with major rewards for top-performing farmers. He said at the provincial level, the first prize will be an 85HP tractor, the second prize a 75HP tractor, and the third a 60HP tractor. At the district level, the first, second, and third prizes have been fixed at Rs 1 million, Rs 800,000, and Rs 500,000, respectively.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025