LAHORE, February 15, 2025 – Punjab has emerged as the agricultural powerhouse of Pakistan, thanks to the groundbreaking Green Pakistan Initiative (GPI) launched in Cholistan by Army Chief General Asim Munir and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. The initiative aims to transform the agricultural landscape and empower local farmers by providing state-of-the-art resources, services, and research facilities.
A New Dawn for Agriculture
The launch event took place at Kandai and Chapu in Cholistan, where the Green Agri Mall, Smart Agri Farm, and the Agricultural Research and Facility Centre were inaugurated. These facilities will serve as the cornerstone of a modernized agricultural framework, aimed at improving crop yields, reducing costs, and promoting sustainable practices.
The Green Agri Mall and Service Company will offer quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides to farmers at discounted rates. It will also provide access to advanced agricultural machinery, including drones, for affordable rentals. Additionally, a 5000-acre state-of-the-art agricultural farm will showcase modern farming techniques and water-efficient practices that will serve as a model for the entire country.
Fostering Research and Development
The newly launched Agricultural Research and Facility Centre will support research and development, providing laboratory services like soil testing and collaborating with agricultural institutions across Pakistan to expand knowledge and innovations in farming.
In her speech, CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif called the launch of these projects a new chapter in the agricultural development of Punjab. She emphasized the importance of this initiative in boosting the prosperity of farmers and improving Pakistan’s agricultural sector. “The Green Pakistan Initiative is a revolution that will take modern agriculture to new heights,” she stated
Punjab Agriculture Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani elaborated on the various aspects of the initiative, including a program for the provision of agricultural machinery for rent across Punjab’s tehsils. “This initiative is a direct result of CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision and will serve as a monumental step forward in the development of our agricultural sector,” he said.
The Green Pakistan Initiative also includes key projects like the Kisan Card, Green Tractor Program, and solarization of agricultural tube wells, all designed to ensure that farmers have the tools they need to succeed in an ever-evolving agricultural landscape.
Towards Food Security and Sustainable Farming
Minister Kirmani further emphasized the importance of utilizing climate-resilient seeds, efficient irrigation systems, and cutting-edge machinery to ensure higher yields per acre and to address challenges like food security. He highlighted the urgent need for cooperative farming, the first of its kind in the country, where provincial, federal, and army institutions collaborate to achieve these goals.
Azma Bukhari’s Vision for Punjab
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari echoed the sentiments of Green Pakistan progress, stating that under the leadership of CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Punjab is entering a new era of agricultural, industrial, and infrastructural growth. “With initiatives like the Kissan Card Programme and the provision of super seeders and green tractors, we are not just offering relief, but also paving the way for sustainable economic growth,” she said.
She also noted that the Ramazan Nigheban ration program would ensure that relief reaches the most deserving people, further solidifying the government’s commitment to the welfare of the people.
Government Initiatives Driving Agricultural Reform
Punjab Agriculture Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani stated that the GPI will offer farmers seeds, pesticides, fertilizers, and modern agricultural equipment under one roof. Additionally, rental services for agricultural machinery will be launched across every tehsil of Punjab.
Other major projects supporting this initiative include:
- Kisan Card Program (Rs. 400 billion project)
- Green Tractor Scheme
- Solarization of Agricultural Tube Wells
- Super Seeder Provision to Reduce Smog
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari stated that the Punjab government, under Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, is committed to making Punjab the food basket of Pakistan. She highlighted ongoing projects aimed at improving agriculture, industry, and infrastructure.
Conclusion: A Milestone for Punjab’s Agriculture
With the launch of the Green Pakistan Initiative, Punjab is poised to lead the way in modern agriculture. This monumental step will ensure that the province continues to thrive as a food basket for Pakistan, while simultaneously providing farmers with the tools and knowledge to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
