18 Sept 2025
The Punjab government is set to roll out a ‘Hi-Tech Bank Financing Programme’ aimed at facilitating paddy growers, particularly those cultivating Basmati rice, which is a cornerstone of the province’s agricultural economy and a major source of foreign exchange.
The announcement was made by Secretary Agriculture Punjab, Iftikhar Ali Sahoo, while chairing a meeting of the Provincial Management Committee on Rice at Agriculture House on Wednesday. The session was attended by representatives of the Pakistan Crop Protection Association (PCPA), CropLife Pakistan, Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), progressive farmers, and senior officials of the Agriculture Department.
During the meeting, members reviewed the impact of recent floods on rice crops across the province. Sahoo emphasized that Basmati rice is not only the identity of Punjab but also a vital contributor to Pakistan’s export earnings. He noted that over 6 million acres of land in Punjab have been cultivated with rice this year.
The secretary informed that special committees have been constituted to conduct surveys and assess crop damages caused by floods. He highlighted that the upcoming Hi-Tech Financing Programme will support farmers with modernized access to credit and ensure their sustainability.
In addition, Sahoo said the department is focusing on the safe use of agrochemicals and guiding farmers in the production of export-quality rice. A comprehensive awareness campaign is also underway to promote better crop management practices.
It was further revealed that the Punjab government is preparing a special compensation package for farmers who have suffered crop losses. The secretary directed concerned officials to issue regular advisories and extend technical guidance to farmers to boost rice production and exports.