Punjab Government Initiates Kisan Card Distribution for 5 Lakh Farmers

In a move to empower farmers, the Punjab Government has launched the Kisan Card program benefitting 5 lakh farmers throughout the province. Scheduled to roll out on October 15, 2024, this initiative forms part of the government’s efforts to provide subsidized inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and other essential agricultural resources with the aim of bolstering crop production and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods.

Key Details about the Kisan Card

• Launch Date: October 15, 2024
• Beneficiary Farmers: 5 Lakh
• Available Inputs: Subsidized seeds, fertilizers, etc.
• Loan Range: Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 150,000 per season

Initial Distribution Target: 40,000 Kisan Cards

The distribution of Kisan Cards kicked off on September 10, 2024, with an initial target to provide 40,000 cards to registered farmers. These recipients can start utilizing their cards from October 15 for purchasing subsidized agricultural inputs. Notably, upcoming projects like the Green Tractor Scheme and internships for agriculture graduates were also discussed in a meeting chaired by Maryam Nawaz, all geared towards fostering modern farming practices and offering financial aid to farmers.

Step-by-Step Guide for Kisan Card Registration

1. Visit the agriculture center in your district.
2. Submit the necessary registration documents.
3. Undergo document verification by the agriculture office to obtain your Kisan Card.
4. Eligible and registered farmers will receive their Kisan Cards for availing of discounted inputs.

Online Application Process for the Kisan Card

1. Access your message inbox.
2. Compose a message with “PKC” followed by your CNIC number.
3. Send the SMS to 8070 ensuring sufficient balance on your phone.
4. Upon completion, you’ll receive further instructions on acquiring your Kisan Card.

Loan Facilities via Kisan Cards

Under the Kisan Card program, farmers can access loans ranging from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 150,000 to support their agricultural activities based on land size. Each farmer can secure up to Rs. 150,000 per season for up to 5 acres, covering expenses like seeds, fertilizers, and other essentials. Highlight features of the Kisan Card scheme include eligibility for farmers with up to 12.5 acres of land, online registration and verification, mandatory linkage of a mobile SIM with the farmer’s CNIC, and the requirement of land registration with the Punjab Land Record Authority (PLRA) for loan approval.

Approval of CM Agriculture Mall Project

Complementing the Kisan Card, the Punjab Government has greenlit the Agriculture Mall Pilot Project across four districts: Okara, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, and Sargodha. These malls will offer farmers access to seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and advisory services. Additionally, the project aims to train 1,000 agriculture graduates through internships and distribute 10,000 tractors to farmers under the CM Green Tractor Scheme.

Conclusion

The launch of the Kisan Card program signifies a significant stride by the Punjab Government in supporting 5 lakh farmers through financial assistance and subsidized agricultural supplies. Interested farmers can register for the Kisan Card at local agriculture centers or opt for the online application process via SMS. With the program set to commence on October 15, 2024, farmers can look forward to accessing crucial resources and loans to enhance their productivity.