In a landmark decision, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz ordered that 10,000 tractors be provided to farmers at subsidized rates by February 28, while another 2,000 super drills will be distributed by March. The high-level meeting, chaired by provincial chief minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, was held to review the progress of ministries and departments related to agriculture, energy and industry in the last six months. The officials informed about the progress of the projects initiated by the Chief Minister. The government has decided to speed up and expand the scheme of providing free solar power to the people of Punjab. It was also decided to complete the conversion of government buildings to solar power and complete the renewable energy project by June. In addition, a comprehensive program was announced to revive and improve citrus fruits such as oranges and kinnows. Plans to set up exemplary agricultural markets in Punjab have also been finalized. Farmers were to receive support to increase production and boost exports, while an additional Rs 6 billion was allocated to support solar energy initiatives. The meeting ordered the establishment of a waste-to-energy fund by March and reviewed the transition of the Punjab Assembly, Institute of Cardiology and other departments to solar energy. CM Maryam set March deadline for completion of ‘Garments Cities’ project in Punjab. Talking about her vision, CM Maryam said, “Modern technological development in agriculture, energy and industry is my agenda. The dream of agricultural and industrial revolution in Punjab is fast becoming a reality.” Noting that CM Maryam’s initiatives have brought prosperity to Punjab and Pakistan, Aurangzeb emphasized that “farmers’ welfare is the basis of progress for Punjab and the nation”.
