Launch of 40,000 Kissan Cards Benefits Farmers Across Punjab

Empowering Farmers with Kissan Cards

The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has kickstarted the distribution of 40,000 Kissan cards among farmers in Punjab on September 12, 2024. The Kisan Card Scheme’s primary goal is to extend interest-free agricultural loans to small-scale farmers to enhance productivity and financial stability.

This groundbreaking initiative focuses on modernizing Punjab’s agricultural landscape while providing much-needed relief to farmers.

Initially, 40,000 Kisan cards will be dispersed among farmers, with a projected outreach to approximately five lakh farmers within a year. This comprehensive guide sheds light on the Kissan Card registration process and utilization benefits.

Eligibility Criteria and Registration Protocol for Kissan Card

Eligibility for the Kisan Card Scheme is reserved for farmers owning up to 12.5 acres of land. The online registration system ensures accessibility for farmers across all regions:

• Farmers must hold Punjab Land Record Authority (PLRA) Mary Card for their land.
• Mobile SIM registration with CNIC verified by Pakistan Mobile Database (PMD) is mandatory.
• Farmer information verification is conducted through NADRA PLRA and ECIB databases.
• To register, farmers need to type a new message and SMS it to 8070 by including PKC, followed by the ID card number.
• Upon successful verification, the Bank of Punjab issues the Chief Minister Kisan Card.

Objectives of the Kissan Card Scheme

With an allocated budget of Rs. 150 million, the Chief Minister Kisan Card Scheme aims to provide interest-free loans to farmers, focusing on:

• Facilitating interest-free agricultural loans.
• Promoting the development of small-scale farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity.
• Ensuring easy access to farming inputs and medications for farmers.
• Boosting the agricultural sector for sustainable growth.

Loan Details and Utilization Scope

Each acre is eligible for a loan of Rs. 30,000, capped at a maximum of Rs. 1.5 lakh. These loans intend to assist in acquiring crucial agricultural inputs such as:

• Fertilizers
• Seeds
• Pesticides
• Other essential farming requisites

This financial aid aims to ease the financial burden on farmers, ultimately enhancing productivity and crop quality.

Pilot Initiatives and Additional Farmer Support

Besides the Kisan Card, the Punjab government has initiated various pilot projects to further support farmers. An agricultural equipment pilot project has launched in Okara, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, and Sargodha, offering farmers access to quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.

The Agriculture Graduate Internship Program, commencing shortly, will bridge traditional and modern farming practices by deploying agronomy graduates to assist farmers using advanced technology.

Helpline Information

This comprehensive guide covers the benefits and registration process for the Kisan Card Scheme. For further inquiries, feel free to contact the helpline below:

Focal Person: Hafiz Abdul Rehman

Contact No.: 042-99205134

In Conclusion

The launch of 40,000 Kissan Cards in Punjab signifies a pivotal step in supporting the agricultural community. Through interest-free loans, simplified application processes, and auxiliary pilot initiatives, the Punjab government is empowering farmers with the necessary tools for success. The Kisan Card Scheme stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring financial stability and prosperity in the agricultural sector.

Farmers are urged to seize this opportunity by applying for the Chief Minister’s Kissan Card today to secure essential financial aid and farming resources.