Maryam Nawaz Announces 10 Major Initiatives for Punjab Farmers, Decides to Establish Apna Kisan Bank

Maryam Nawaz Announces 10 Major Initiatives for Punjab Farmers

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced 10 major initiatives for farmers across the province, including the establishment of Apna Kisan Bank, zero-markup loans of up to Rs10 million, an increase in the per-acre loan limit under the Kisan Card scheme, and a special package for olive cultivation.

According to a report published by Daily Pakistan Online on October 28, 2026, the announcements also cover wheat support prices, action against water theft, and canal cleaning measures. These initiatives were discussed during a meeting with representatives of small, medium, and large-scale farmers from different parts of Punjab.

Also Read ; CM Punjab Rehmat Card 2026 

Maryam Nawaz Announces Apna Kisan Bank for Punjab Farmers

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced that Punjab will establish its first Apna Kisan Bank to provide financial assistance to farmers and improve their access to agricultural loans.

Under the proposed loan structure, farmers will be able to access financing of up to Rs10 million at zero markup. Loans of up to Rs30 million will carry a 2% interest rate, while financing of up to Rs50 million will be available at a 5% interest rate.

The initiative is intended to help farmers manage agricultural expenses, invest in their farms, and obtain financial support on more accessible terms.

Farmers should wait for official guidelines regarding the bank’s launch, eligibility criteria, registration process, and loan application procedure.

Kisan Card Loan Limit Increased to Rs33,500 Per Acre

Another major announcement concerns the Punjab Kisan Card scheme. Maryam Nawaz announced an increase in the loan limit from Rs30,000 to Rs33,500 per acre.

According to the announcement, farmers will receive an additional Rs3,500 per acre in financing in view of rising fertilizer prices. The increased limit is intended to help farmers manage the cost of agricultural inputs during the farming season.

The Kisan Card provides eligible farmers with access to financial assistance for purchasing essential agricultural supplies, including fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides.

The provincial government also announced that Rs17 billion in subsidized agricultural loans would be provided to farmers.

Offichal Website ; https://agripunjab.gov.pk/ongoing_projects

More Than 1 Million Farmers Benefiting from Kisan Card

According to the report, more than one million small farmers in Punjab are benefiting from the Kisan Card scheme.

The programme is designed to make agricultural financing more accessible and support farmers in purchasing essential inputs. Its digital system is also intended to improve transparency and ensure that loans are distributed according to eligibility criteria.

With the proposed increase in the per-acre loan limit, eligible farmers may receive additional financial support for their agricultural needs, subject to the applicable programme rules.

Farmers should follow official Punjab government announcements for confirmation of the revised limits and any new application requirements.

Special Olive Cultivation Package Announced

Maryam Nawaz also announced a special package for olive cultivation in Punjab.

Olive farming can provide an alternative agricultural opportunity in suitable areas, depending on soil conditions, climate, water availability, and farming practices. A dedicated support package could help interested farmers explore olive cultivation and diversify their agricultural activities.

However, the detailed package, including eligibility requirements, financial assistance, and application procedures, should be confirmed through official government notifications.

Wheat Support Price of Rs4,500 Per Maund

The chief minister also announced that implementation of the wheat support price of Rs4,500 per maund would be ensured.

Wheat is an important crop for Punjab’s agricultural economy, and its price directly affects farmers’ earnings and production decisions. The announced support price is therefore a significant part of the government’s stated agricultural agenda.

Farmers should check the relevant official notifications for the applicable procurement arrangements, eligibility conditions, and implementation details.

Action Against Water Theft to Continue

The Punjab government will continue its campaign against water theft, according to the announcement.

Water availability is a major concern for farmers, particularly during periods of high irrigation demand. Illegal water use can affect the distribution of irrigation supplies and create difficulties for farmers who depend on canals for their crops.

The announced measures are intended to support fairer water distribution and address complaints related to irrigation access.

Canal Cleaning Measures Also Announced

The chief minister also highlighted canal cleaning and maintenance measures.

Canal cleaning, including the removal of accumulated silt and other obstructions, is important for maintaining the flow of irrigation water. Effective maintenance can help improve water delivery to agricultural areas and support farming activities.

The timing and implementation of these measures will depend on the relevant irrigation department’s plans and official schedules.

Meeting Held with Farmers from Across Punjab

During the meeting, representatives of small, medium, and large farmers discussed agricultural development, financial challenges, and issues affecting their daily farming activities.

Maryam Nawaz said that Pakistan’s economic progress could not be achieved without the contribution of Punjab’s farmers. She also described Punjab as the country’s food basket and stated that the province meets around 70% of national food requirements.

The chief minister assured the participants that their suggestions and recommendations would be considered and implemented gradually.

What These Announcements Mean for Punjab Farmers

The announced initiatives cover several areas that directly affect agricultural production and farm finances.

The proposed Apna Kisan Bank could expand access to agricultural loans, while the revised Kisan Card limit could provide eligible farmers with additional financing per acre. The olive cultivation package may offer another agricultural opportunity, while wheat pricing, irrigation enforcement, and canal maintenance address other farming concerns.

However, an announcement does not automatically mean that applications are open or that every farmer qualifies for assistance. Farmers should wait for official notifications before applying for new loans or making financial decisions based on the proposed programmes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Apna Kisan Bank in Punjab?

Apna Kisan Bank is a proposed agricultural financing initiative announced by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to provide loans to farmers on specified markup terms.

How much loan can farmers receive under the announced plan?

The announced financing structure includes loans of up to Rs10 million at zero markup, up to Rs30 million at 2% interest, and up to Rs50 million at 5% interest. Final terms will depend on the official programme rules.

What is the new Kisan Card loan limit per acre?

The announced limit has increased from Rs30,000 to Rs33,500 per acre, representing an additional Rs3,500 per acre.

How many farmers are benefiting from the Kisan Card scheme?

According to the report, more than one million small farmers in Punjab are benefiting from the scheme.

What other measures did Maryam Nawaz announce for farmers?

The announcements include a special olive cultivation package, implementation of the wheat support price of Rs4,500 per maund, continued action against water theft, and canal cleaning measures.

Conclusion

The announcements by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz focus on agricultural financing, Kisan Card support, olive cultivation, wheat pricing, and irrigation management. The proposed Apna Kisan Bank and increased per-acre financing limit are among the key measures outlined for farmers.

Farmers should monitor official Punjab government and agriculture department updates for confirmed launch dates, eligibility criteria, loan terms, and application procedures before taking any action.