The Punjab government has introduced a revolutionary initiative to uplift the province’s livestock sector by launching the Livestock Card and providing over Rs. 10 billion in interest-free loans. This initiative, spearheaded by Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Agriculture and Livestock Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, aims to enhance meat and milk production, increase exports, and support impoverished farmers across Punjab.
Livestock Card Launch: Empowering 80,000 Farmers
The Livestock Card, set to be activated on December 15, will benefit 80,000 farmers by enabling them to purchase essential items such as cattle feed, mineral mixtures, and silage from registered dealers. The government aims to ensure the economic independence of farmers and boost rural livelihoods.
Eligible farmers can apply through their nearest veterinary hospital or by sending a message to 8070 with their CNIC details. A dedicated helpline (080009211) has also been established to facilitate registration.
Interest-Free Loan Program
The Punjab government has allocated Rs. 11 billion for an interest-free loan scheme targeting livestock farmers. Under this program:
- Loans ranging from Rs. 135,000 to Rs. 270,000 will be provided per farmer.
- Farmers must own 5 to 10 male calves and have a valid CNIC and registered mobile SIM.
- Loans will be disbursed in installments, starting four months after registration.
Facility desks have been set up at livestock hospitals across Punjab, where trained staff assist farmers with the application process.
Tackling Foot-and-Mouth Disease
One of the major obstacles to livestock productivity and export is foot-and-mouth disease. To address this issue, the Punjab government has allocated Rs. 7.5 billion for a comprehensive vaccination program targeting cows and buffaloes. This initiative aims to improve animal health and boost meat exports.
Economic Upliftment of Women in South Punjab
The Punjab government has launched a project to support poor widows and women in South Punjab by providing them with cows and buffaloes. A budget of Rs. 2 billion has been allocated to this initiative, which aims to promote financial stability and encourage livestock farming among economically disadvantaged families.
Green Tractor Scheme: Supporting Agriculture
Complementing the livestock initiatives, the Green Tractor Scheme has received an overwhelming response, with over 1.5 million applications submitted. The scheme offers a subsidy of Rs. 10 lakh on tractors (50 to 85 HP) manufactured in Pakistan, benefiting farmers with 1 to 50 acres of agricultural land.
Technological Advancements and Development Projects
The Punjab government is also focusing on modernizing the livestock sector through several development projects:
- Genetic improvement of cattle and sheep.
- Enhancement of the semen production unit.
- Development of vaccines by the Veterinary Research Institute.
- Introduction of mobile veterinary dispensaries equipped with ultrasound machines for accurate diagnosis.
Minister Kirmani emphasized the importance of timely submission of PC-1 forms for these projects to ensure their prompt initiation and to provide necessary facilities to livestock farmers.
The Punjab government’s Livestock Card and interest-free loan schemes are set to transform the province’s livestock sector, boosting production, increasing exports, and empowering farmers, especially women. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring economic stability and prosperity for rural communities.
