Lahore, May 16, 2025: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Friday announced a major relief package for farmers, doubling the Kissan Card loan limit from Rs150,000 to Rs300,000 and introducing a subsidy of up to 95% on the solarisation of agricultural tube wells.
Speaking at a ceremony held at the Kala Shah Kaku Rice Research Institute, the chief minister also unveiled new farmer support initiatives, including the launch of an SMS and helpline system for those without Kissan Cards.
She revealed that 20,000 farmers would receive green tractors on subsidy next year, alongside the establishment of agricultural machinery rental centres in every tehsil to enhance mechanised farming.
Congratulating the nation on the success of Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, CM Maryam also commended government institutions for their role. “The reduction of inflation from 40% to nearly zero is nothing short of a miracle,” she said, citing the drop in onion prices from Rs300 to Rs50 per kg as an example.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting farmers, she said, “Those who tried to sow discord between farmers and the government have failed. Punjab’s farmers trusted the government and cultivated wheat on my appeal. In return, we ensured they faced no losses.”
The chief minister explained that instead of a fixed wheat support price, the government is providing direct subsidies—offering Rs5,000 per acre to wheat growers. She noted that 85% of Kissan Card loans have already been repaid, reflecting farmers’ trust and financial responsibility.
Emphasising the government’s support, she added:
“During Muhammad Nawaz Sharif’s tenure, farmers received green tractors—and now, once again, they are being empowered with the same support under the new government.”
CM Maryam also outlined other key steps being taken to reduce production costs, including support on seed, fertiliser, pesticides, diesel, and electricity bills for tube wells.
The chief minister predicted a significant increase in cotton production this year, with early sowing expected to yield a 30–40% rise, translating into a projected output of six million bales.
Addressing the farming community directly, she urged them not to be misled:
“The government stands firmly with you. Your grievances will be addressed, and the coming year will bring more prosperity.”
During the ceremony, she also launched the wheat support scheme by handing out tractors and cash grants, and inspected the latest models of Chinese tractors displayed at the venue.
