Last Updated on: 23rd September 2024, 11:31 am
The Punjab government has announced a new initiative aimed at transforming the province’s agricultural landscape. It has launched an industrial farming project aimed at increasing the production of two essential crops: onions and tomatoes. The goal? Ensure that these staples are available all year round and help manage their price increases.
This new project comes with a significant investment of Rs 6,000 crore aimed at training 33 groups of agricultural entrepreneurs comprising around 450 farmers. Together, they will work to cultivate 17,500 acres for seasonal and off-season crops.
Rs 6 billion farming project to increase crop production
The project will provide assistance for solarization, drip irrigation, fertilizers, and seeds to groups of 5 to 10 farmers. In Punjab, we grow onions and tomatoes using off-season farming techniques, ensuring a fresh supply for six months, eliminating the need for artificial production.
Land Distribution Breakdown for Seasonal and Off-Season Crops
We strategically allocate land for both seasonal and off-season cultivation. Here is how it breaks down:
Onions:
- 2,500 acres for off-season cultivation in Vehari, Khanewal and Rahim Yar Khan.
- 9,000 acres for seasonal production in Lodhran, Multan and Rajanpur.
Tomatoes:
- 2,500 acres for off-season plantations in Khushab, Chakwal, Rawalpindi, Jhelum and DG Khan.
- 3,500 acres for seasonal cultivation in Muzaffargarh, Rahim Yar Khan and Sheikhupura.
Punjab Government to Provide Additional Assistance to Farmers
The World Bank is supporting this initiative by providing cold storage, machinery, farm equipment, nursery plants, and seeds. According to sources in the Agriculture Ministry, this project is in line with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz‘s vision of ensuring that everyone can get quality vegetables at fair prices. Officials pledged to provide farmers with all the necessary assistance to achieve these goals.
In his speech, Kirmani stated that farmers will benefit from subsidies for solar panels and modern agricultural equipment, thus improving their ability to grow tomatoes and onions seasonally and year-round.
Also Read: Maryam Nawaz Mahfooz Punjab Program for Deserving People
Technical Training Through Agriculture School
A practical agriculture school will provide technical training to further support this initiative. The focus of this training will be on quality improvement, climate-smart practices, regenerative agriculture, and post-harvest techniques.
What is expected for crop production?
According to Punjab’s Agriculture Minister, this project will result in a significant increase in production: approximately 28,500 additional tons of onions and 39,000 additional tons of tomatoes, in both seasonal and non-seasonal categories.
Also Read: Punjab to Open Modern And Innovative Market of Fruits And Vegetables
Last Words
We expect the Punjab government’s Rs 6 billion farming project to significantly increase onion and tomato production. With modern techniques and strong support for farmers, these important crops will soon be more affordable and easily accessible to everyone in the province.