Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched the innovative “Lab on Wheels” programme to improve farming practices across the province. The initiative aims to bring scientific soil and water testing directly to farmers’ fields. As a result, growers will receive immediate recommendations to improve crop production and reduce cultivation costs.
The programme marks another step towards introducing modern agricultural practices in Punjab. Instead of relying on traditional methods, farmers will now have access to digital and scientific services at their doorstep.
Mobile Labs to Conduct On-the-Spot Soil and Water Testing
Under the new programme, mobile laboratory teams will visit farms and collect soil and water samples directly from the fields. The samples will then undergo immediate scientific analysis without requiring farmers to travel to testing facilities.
During the visit, experts will examine important soil indicators, including soil pH and electrical conductivity (EC). In addition, the laboratories will analyse essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) to determine the fertility of the land.
Once the testing process is complete, all results will be entered into a dedicated mobile application. Farmers will then receive a comprehensive scientific report immediately at the site.
Digital Reports to Reach Farmers Through Mobile Phones
The programme also introduces a digital reporting system for farmers. After completing the analysis, the laboratory team will send a secure link to the farmer through SMS and WhatsApp.
With a single click, farmers will be able to access their complete soil and water reports on their mobile phones. Moreover, the reports will include recommendations for suitable crops and balanced fertiliser use according to the specific condition of each field.
This digital approach aims to simplify agricultural planning while ensuring that farmers receive accurate and timely information.
Experts to Provide Guidance at the Farm
Besides laboratory testing, agricultural experts will provide face-to-face consultations during each visit. Farmers will receive practical advice on improving soil quality, selecting suitable crops and managing fertiliser use efficiently.
Speaking during the meeting, Maryam Nawaz highlighted the importance of scientific farming practices.
She said, “accurate soil testing and use of balanced fertilizers will make Punjab agriculturally self-sufficient.”
She further stated, “agriculture in Punjab has been taken out of traditional methods and entered the scientific and digital era.”
Highlighting the programme’s objective, she added, “Our goal is to reduce the cost of production of the farmer and increase the income received per acre.”
Central Monitoring System to Ensure Transparency
The Punjab government has also introduced a central monitoring mechanism to oversee the performance of the mobile laboratories.
A central control room will monitor every mobile lab through real-time GPS tracking. Furthermore, authorities will establish a live camera streaming system and digital dashboard to monitor field operations and ensure transparency.
When a farmer requests a visit, the application will immediately register the request. After approval from the District Lab Incharge, the mobile laboratory will be dispatched to the farm.
Field staff attendance will also be recorded digitally through the mobile application to improve accountability.
Focus on Sustainable Agriculture
Officials informed the meeting that the programme will also help prepare a digital GPS soil map of Punjab using cloud-based real-time data.
The initiative aims to improve soil health by encouraging balanced fertiliser use. Consequently, production costs may decline while crop productivity increases. The government also expects the programme to support long-term sustainable agriculture across the province.
Annual Targets Set for Farmers
The government has established ambitious annual targets under the initiative. Authorities plan to collect 20,000 soil samples every year. In addition, 500 farmer field days will be organised annually to promote awareness and practical learning.
Furthermore, around 15,000 farmers will receive professional agricultural training each year. These efforts are expected to strengthen modern farming practices and improve agricultural productivity throughout Punjab.
