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The Punjab government has announced a major initiative to introduce cooperative farming aimed at increasing the cultivation of key vegetables like tomatoes and onions. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance agricultural productivity in the region, while also ensuring the planting of wheat on public lands.
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According to sources, a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz reviewed recommendations for the ‘Transforming Punjab Agriculture’ project. As part of this effort, groups of 5 to 10 farmers will receive subsidies on seeds, fertilizers, drip irrigation, and solar energy systems to improve yields and cut costs. A significant project will also be launched to promote off-season farming of onions and tomatoes on 2,000 acres of land, ensuring a steady supply throughout the year and preventing artificial price inflation.
Officials noted that this initiative will allow local produce to be available within six months, which will stabilize vegetable prices in the market. Furthermore, the government approved the launch of an agricultural machinery rental service to make farming equipment more accessible to farmers.
In a related development, the Sindh caretaker government previously allocated over 52,000 acres of land for corporate farming to a military-supported company, despite opposition from nationalist parties. This move was aimed at attracting both local and international investment in Sindh’s agricultural sector. Following this, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) government decided in March 2024 to expand the initiative.
A spokesperson from the Chief Minister’s Office clarified that the land would not be sold but leased solely for farming purposes. Local water rights would remain protected, as companies involved would be required to source water through alternative irrigation systems.
This corporate farming trend has also been seen in Punjab, where the caretaker government signed an agreement on March 16, 2023, to allocate at least 45,267 acres of land in Bhakkar, Khushab, and Sahiwal for corporate farming under the supervision of the Pakistan Army. This strategic move is expected to boost agriculture, strengthen food security, and increase the economic output of the province.
This comprehensive plan by the Punjab government underscores the importance of agriculture in Pakistan’s economy and the need to adopt modern, sustainable farming methods to ensure food security and stable prices in the future.
By focusing on cooperative farming, off-season vegetable production, and corporate agriculture, Punjab is positioning itself as a leader in the country’s agricultural transformation, driving investment, innovation, and growth.