LAHORE (MNN); Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Friday approved a monthly stipend of Rs70,000 for agriculture interns as part of a comprehensive plan to engage youth and modernise the agricultural sector in the province.
The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by the chief minister, where she emphasised linking educated youth with agriculture through practical training and innovation. Under the āApna Khet, Apna Rozgarā programme, selected interns will gain hands-on experience by managing farms and spearheading modern agricultural projects.
Maryam Nawaz said that Punjabās young talent would lead what she described as a new agricultural revolution in the province.
Rooftop hydroponic farming initiative
For the first time, the provincial government has approved rooftop hydroponic farming projects in Punjab. Officials briefed the meeting that between 280 and 350 plants could be cultivated on rooftops as small as two marlas using specially designed structures and polythene sheets. Ten pilot projects will initially be launched in Lahore in collaboration with private housing societies.
Sustainable and environment-friendly measures
To encourage sustainable farming practices, the government approved the solarisation of 10,000 diesel-powered tube wells across Punjab to reduce fuel costs and environmental pollution.
Under the Punjab Agriculture Mechanization Project, 28,000 super seeders will be distributed by 2028 to improve crop residue management and curb environmental damage caused by stubble burning.
Green Tractor Program Phase IV
The chief minister also gave the go-ahead for Phase IV of the CM Green Tractor Program. Subsidies for high-horsepower tractors will be set at Rs1.5 million, while financial support for low-horsepower tractors has been increased from Rs500,000 to Rs700,000 to facilitate small and medium-scale farmers.
On-farm rainwater harvesting
In another first, Punjab will introduce ground recharge wells for on-farm rainwater harvesting. These wells will help store rainwater, enhance groundwater recharge and improve water management for agricultural use.
Officials stated that the combined initiatives are aimed at transforming Punjabās agriculture through innovation, sustainability and youth participation, while also generating employment opportunities across the province.
