The government of Punjab has taken a significant step toward transforming its agricultural landscape by launching an interest-free loan scheme for modern farm machinery. The initiative, spearheaded by Maryam Nawaz Sharif, introduces Punjab’s first High-Tech Farm Mechanisation Financing Programme Portal aimed at accelerating the province’s shift toward technologically advanced farming practices.
The provincial agriculture department briefed the chief minister that farmers, service providers, and agricultural companies will be able to access interest-free financing of up to Rs30 million through a fully digital loan application system. This financing facility will support the acquisition of 12 categories of high-tech agricultural machinery designed to boost productivity, reduce manual labor, and modernize the sector.
According to the programme’s framework, borrowers will benefit from a six-month grace period before repayment begins. Installments will be spread over five years on a quarterly basis, ensuring that farmers have sufficient time and flexibility to generate returns on their investments before meeting their financial obligations.
Speaking at the launch event, the chief minister expressed optimism that this initiative would trigger an agricultural revolution in Punjab. She emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing farming techniques, increasing crop yields, and empowering rural communities through access to advanced tools and financial support.
The financing programme will provide access to machinery manufactured by global agricultural equipment leaders, including 27 companies from China, 10 from Turkiye, five from Italy, and others from Japan, the United States, Brazil, Spain, and Belarus. This diverse machinery portfolio aims to equip farmers with cutting-edge solutions for multiple crop types and farming needs.
Eligible equipment includes wheat combine harvesters, multi-crop and rice planters, nursery machines, rice harvesters, wheat straw balers, maize cob harvesters, dryers, silage harvesters, orchard pruners, and air blast sprayers. The scheme also covers central pivot irrigation systems and high-powered tractors, which are essential for improving water use efficiency and large-scale cultivation.
The digital portal is expected to simplify loan processing, enhance transparency, and minimize bureaucratic delays. By integrating technology with agriculture, the provincial government aims to make modern machinery more accessible to small and medium-sized farmers, service providers, and agri-tech companies.
Meanwhile, in a related development, Marryam Khan, Lahore Division Commissioner, instructed the local administration to invoke Section 144 to curb crop residue burning near motorways, a leading cause of smog in the region. She also directed departments to intensify monitoring against environmental violations, civic negligence, and dengue risks during the smog season.
During a review meeting on anti-smog enforcement and urban infrastructure, authorities reported progress in multiple areas. Two brick kilns had been demolished and 14 cases registered against industrial units violating pollution regulations over the past two months. A ban remains in effect on substandard fuel usage, garbage burning, and other smog-inducing activities.
Local infrastructure initiatives are also under way. Officials identified 958 potholes, unfinished road patches, and manhole issues across Lahore, with repair efforts in progress. The Water and Sanitation Agency confirmed that all 574 water filtration plants under its control are operational.
This dual approach of supporting agricultural innovation through financing and addressing environmental challenges reflects a broader strategy to create a more sustainable and technologically empowered agricultural ecosystem in Punjab.
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