HBL continues to demonstrate its commitment to rural development and agricultural sustainability through its Agahi Program, which recently hosted a dedicated session for farmers in Pakpattan, Punjab. The event took place at the Dera of HBL Zarai and was organized in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), reinforcing the shared vision of financial empowerment and agricultural progress in Pakistan.
This initiative is part of HBL’s larger strategy to promote inclusive banking and enable the rural farming community to adopt modern practices and benefit from formal financial systems. Since its inception in 2018, the Agahi Program has positively impacted more than 30,000 farmers across the country, offering them structured agri-finance options, access to knowledge on best agronomic practices, and insights into efficient farm management.
The Pakpattan event was designed to address the specific needs of farmers in the region, offering them both technical and financial guidance aimed at improving yield quality and operational productivity. Participants were introduced to advanced agronomy techniques, including soil health management, crop rotation, irrigation efficiency, and integrated pest control. These practices are essential for increasing crop output while preserving environmental sustainability.
Equally significant was the financial component of the program. HBL representatives provided guidance on available agri-finance products tailored to seasonal and long-term farming requirements. These include loans for input costs, farm equipment financing, and support for livestock development. The bank’s agri-banking team worked closely with farmers to help them understand eligibility criteria, loan structures, and repayment mechanisms, thereby reducing traditional barriers to financial access.
The collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan also emphasized regulatory support and the central bank’s ongoing efforts to promote rural financial inclusion. By engaging directly with farmers and stakeholders on the ground, SBP’s involvement underscored the importance of institutional alignment in driving long-term agricultural transformation in Pakistan.
Through the Agahi Program, HBL aims not just to provide financial products, but to foster a culture of informed decision-making and self-sufficiency within rural communities. This approach is aligned with the broader national objectives of economic resilience, poverty alleviation, and sustainable resource use.
Pakpattan, being one of Punjab’s key agricultural districts, serves as a vital focal point for such interventions. By equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools they need, HBL continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening agricultural livelihoods, improving food security, and boosting rural economies.
The success of the Agahi Program in regions like Pakpattan serves as a model for other financial institutions seeking to create real impact in Pakistan’s farming sector. As the program grows, it reflects a tangible shift towards smarter, more connected, and future-oriented agriculture across the country.