The Punjab government has launched a special scheme for farmers called the Kisan Card. This card will aid 5 lakh farmers in the province by providing them with low-cost agricultural inputs including seeds, fertilizers, and other essentials. Farmers will be able to utilize the Kisan Card beginning October 15, 2024. This program attempts to improve farmers’ livelihoods and help them cultivate their crops more efficiently.
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| Kisan Card Benefits | Details |
| Launch Date | October 15, 2024 |
| Number of Farmers Benefiting | 5 Lakh |
| Available Inputs | Subsidized seeds, fertilizers, etc. |
| Loan Amount | Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 150,000 per season |
Initial Distribution of 40,000 Kisan Cards
On September 10, 2024, Punjab’s Chief Minister announced that the first phase of Kisan Card distribution has commenced. 40,000 cards will be given to farmers who have registered. Starting October 15, these farmers will be able to use their Kisan Cards to buy subsidized agricultural inputs. Maryam Nawaz led a meeting in which it was announced that six new programs, including the Kisan Card, Green Tractor Scheme, and agriculture internships, will be launched soon to encourage modern farming practices and offer farmers with financial aid.
How to Register for the Kisan Card
Farmers must first register to receive Kisan Card benefits. Here’s a simple way to register for the Kisan Card: Visit the agriculture center in your district. Submit the required documents for registration. The agriculture office will review your documentation and issue you a Kisan Card. Farmers who have enrolled can use the Kisan Card to buy cheaper seeds, fertilizer, and other crop-related supplies.
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How to Apply for the Kisan Card Online
If farmers prefer to apply for the Kisan Card online, they can follow these simple steps: Open your phone’s message inbox. Enter “PKC” followed by your CNIC number. Send this message to 8070. Make sure your phone has adequate balance to send the SMS. After completing these processes, farmers will be given advice on how to obtain their Kisan Card.
Visit: https://agripunjab.gov.pk/kissan-card
Loans Through Kisan Cards
The Kisan Card also offers funding to farmers who run large-scale farming operations. Farmers can borrow anywhere between Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 150,000 per season, depending on the size of their land. Each farmer can earn up to Rs. 150,000 for five acres to help cover the costs of seeds, fertilizer, and other agricultural inputs. Key Feature of the Kisan Card: Farmers with up to 12.5 acres of land are eligible. The registration and verification processes are conducted online. A mobile SIM card tied to the farmer’s CNIC is required. Loans are only available to those who have filed their land records with the Punjab Land Record Authority (PLRA).
Approval of CM Agriculture Mall Project
In addition to the Kisan Card, the Punjab government has approved the Agricultural Mall Pilot Project for four districts: Okara, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, and Sargodha. Farmers will be able to get seeds, fertilizers, insecticides, and guidance at these malls. The plan would also train 1,000 agricultural graduates through an internship program and provide 10,000 tractors to farmers under the CM Green Tractor Scheme.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s issue of the Kisan Card is a crucial step in providing financial help and reduced agricultural inputs to 5 lakh farmers. Farmers can register for the Kisan Card at their local agriculture center or apply online by SMS. Beginning October 15, 2024, farmers will be able to use the Kisan Card to purchase vital commodities and acquire loans, allowing them to boost productivity and grow healthier crops.