Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Friday approved a monthly stipend of Rs70,000 for agriculture interns as part of a broader strategy to engage youth and modernize the province’s agricultural sector.
The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by the chief minister, where she stressed the need to connect young professionals with agriculture through practical exposure and innovation. Under the “Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar” programme, agriculture interns will receive hands-on training by managing farms and leading new agricultural initiatives.
The chief minister said Punjab’s talented youth would play a central role in driving what she described as an agricultural revolution in the province.
Rooftop hydroponic farming introduced
For the first time in Punjab, the provincial government has approved rooftop hydroponic farming projects. According to officials, 280 to 350 plants can be grown on rooftops as small as two marlas using specially designed structures and polythene sheets. Ten pilot projects will be launched in Lahore in coordination with housing societies.
Environment-friendly agriculture measures
To promote sustainable farming, the meeting approved a solarization scheme for 10,000 diesel tube wells across Punjab. In addition, under the Punjab Agriculture Mechanization Project, the government aims to distribute 28,000 super seeders by 2028 to improve crop residue management and reduce environmental impact.
Green Tractor Program Phase IV
The chief minister also approved Phase IV of the CM Green Tractor Program. Under the new phase, subsidies for high-horsepower tractors will be Rs1.5 million, while subsidies for low-horsepower tractors have been increased from Rs500,000 to Rs700,000.
On-farm rainwater harvesting
Punjab will also introduce ground recharge wells for on-farm rainwater harvesting for the first time. These wells will help collect and store rainwater, improving water availability and management for agricultural use.
Officials said the combined initiatives aim to modernize Punjab’s agriculture, promote environmental sustainability, and create meaningful employment opportunities for young people across the province.
