Punjab has issued 900,000 Kissan Cards as the provincial government expands financial support and agricultural mechanisation initiatives. Officials also added 50,000 more farmers to the programme, bringing it closer to its target of one million beneficiaries.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired a meeting of the Agriculture Department to review progress on the Kissan Card scheme. Moreover, officials briefed her on interest-free loans and tractor distribution across the province.
According to the briefing, farmers have received Rs 360 billion in interest-free loans under the programme. The loan recovery rate has reached 99 percent, reflecting strong repayment by beneficiaries.
Officials added that 80 percent of the disbursed loans were spent on purchasing fertilisers. Meanwhile, Rs 116 billion was allocated for the Kharif crop season, with Rs62 billion already utilised.
Government Expands Financial and Mechanisation Support
Officials said nearly 75 percent of Kharif loans were used specifically for fertilizer purchases. Furthermore, international audit firm KPMG will submit an impact assessment report on the programme by September 30.
The provincial government also plans to promote the Kissan Card initiative internationally. Maryam Nawaz said the programme has empowered farmers through practical financial support.
Tractor Distribution Programme Gains Momentum
The meeting was informed that 34,000 green tractors are being distributed across Punjab in three phases. Additionally, 41 percent of recipients are receiving a tractor for the first time.
Officials said 20 percent of beneficiaries also purchased modern agricultural equipment alongside their tractors. Meanwhile, 32 percent are now providing machinery services to other farmers.
Maryam Nawaz said Punjab will distribute 50,000 tractors over three years for the first time. She also stated that the entire distribution process has been fully computerised, eliminating human intervention and improving transparency.
