Lahore: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a wheat support initiative, approving a subsidy of Rs 5,000 per acre for six lac farmers through the Kissan Card program. In a significant move, those without a Kissan Card will also benefit from this financial aid.
During a special meeting, it was revealed that billions of rupees in subsidies will be allocated to support farmers for the upcoming crop cycle. The program has already seen substantial activity, with farmers utilizing Rs 36 billion for agricultural inputs. Of this, 60 percent of the loans issued through the Kissan Card have already been disbursed.
The meeting highlighted that farmers have successfully repaid loans totaling Rs 22 billion, and a second installment has been released for the new crop season. Half of the applications received for the wheat support program have been verified, ensuring that the process moves forward efficiently.
The Chief Minister also focused on energy sustainability, discussing a solarization scheme for agricultural tube wells. Proposals for implementing the wheat support program were reviewed, including the potential inclusion of contractors alongside landowners.