Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani Discusses Farmer Issues with DG LIMS in Lahore

In a significant move to address the challenges faced by farmers in Punjab, Provincial Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani recently met with Major General Shahid Nazir, the Director General of the Land Information Management System (LIMS), at the Agriculture House in Lahore. This meeting, held on a Wednesday, aimed to discuss various issues plaguing the agricultural sector and to explore solutions that could enhance productivity and sustainability.

The LIMS, established with the support of the Federal government and the Pakistan Army, is dedicated to transforming uncultivated and barren lands into productive agricultural areas. Major General Nazir highlighted that so far, 300,000 acres of canal land in Punjab have been converted into cultivable fields. This initiative is not just about land conversion; it also includes providing essential agricultural machinery on a rental basis to small farmers, ensuring that they have access to the tools necessary for modern farming.

During the meeting, it was emphasized that all farmers would be registered to address their immediate agricultural challenges and to boost per-acre production. The collaboration with 16 private companies under LIMS will facilitate the provision of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural equipment, all available at established agricultural malls. These malls are designed to be one-stop shops for farmers, offering everything they need to enhance their farming practices.

One of the primary goals of this initiative is to reduce the production costs for farmers while promoting smart agricultural practices. Major General Nazir mentioned, "We have purchased heavy-duty tractors and drones. Training for farmers will also be organized in agricultural malls, and a marketing platform will be provided to them." This approach not only aims to increase agricultural output but also to improve the overall efficiency of farming operations.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed the need for increased storage capacity for farmers to store grains and other essential commodities. The private sector will be encouraged to establish storage facilities, ensuring that farmers can manage their produce effectively. Minister Kirmani reiterated the Punjab government's commitment to working alongside LIMS under a mutual partnership agreement, which aligns with the vision of the Chief Minister of Punjab for agricultural prosperity.

The Punjab government is actively supporting this initiative by providing a substantial number of agricultural implements, including 26,000 tools, 5,000 super seeders, 2,000 rice straw shredders, and 9,500 tractors ranging from 50 to 85 horsepower, all on a subsidized basis. This support is crucial for farmers who may not have access to such machinery, enabling them to increase their agricultural production while also addressing environmental concerns.

Secretary of Agriculture Iftikhar Ali Sahoo mentioned that LIMS and the Punjab government would operate on a profit-free basis, ensuring that the focus remains on supporting farmers rather than generating profit. The strategic location of agricultural malls is also a priority, with plans to establish these centers at the district level in the first phase.

The collaboration between the Punjab government and LIMS represents a promising step towards revitalizing the agricultural sector in Punjab. By addressing the needs of farmers and providing them with the necessary resources and training, this initiative has the potential to not only enhance agricultural productivity but also to foster a sustainable farming environment. As these plans unfold, it is essential for all stakeholders to remain committed to the shared goal of agricultural advancement, ensuring that farmers can thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.