“Agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan” – this is a phrase we have been hearing for decades. In the past, many governments claimed to introduce revolutionary measures in the agricultural sector, yet the problems of farmers largely remained unresolved. However, as soon as Maryam Nawaz assumed leadership in Punjab, the deprivations faced by farmers over seven decades were addressed within just two years.
Maryam Nawaz not only acknowledged the legitimate demands and grievances of farmers but translated her assurances into tangible relief, proving that she genuinely considers farmers the backbone of Pakistan. One of her first major initiatives was the introduction of the Kisan Card, through which billions of rupees in relief have been provided to farmers across the province.
From the creation of Pakistan until 2023, previous governments collectively distributed around 20,000 tractors to farmers – a significant portion of which were provided during the tenure of the Pakistan Muslim League (N). In contrast, Maryam Nawaz has delivered 21,000 Green Tractors within just two years. Furthermore, the third phase of the Green Tractor Scheme has already commenced, under which an additional 10,000 tractors are being distributed.
Those who criticize or mock Maryam Nawaz are often the same individuals who once spoke of a “state of Madinah” but in practice introduced policies like hemp cultivation or spoke of bringing economic revolution through unconventional means such as egg-laying hens.
In addition, 5,000 Super Seeders have been provided to farmers, and a project for the solarization of 8,000 tube wells is successfully underway. Recently, Maryam Nawaz introduced yet another landmark initiative, formally launching the “Apna Khet Apna Rozgar Scheme.”
Two months ago, during a ceremony related to electric buses, Maryam Nawaz had announced that the government would soon provide free agricultural land to individuals who do not own land for cultivation. This initiative has now officially begun. Under this scheme, the Punjab government will distribute land worth approximately Rs. 160 billion to landless rural residents.
Across various districts of Punjab, 88,780 families will directly benefit from this program, while in Cholistan, more than 111,000 families will benefit. A total of 13,812 land lots will be distributed across Punjab, whereas 16,685 lots will be allocated in Cholistan.
Maryam Nawaz is not only distributing land but also providing a one-time cultivation grant ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 250,000 per acre to each beneficiary. The scheme has only one condition: the allocated land must be used strictly for agricultural purposes, and no permanent construction will be permitted. The land will be provided to aspiring farmers for a period of ten years.
Undoubtedly, this initiative by the Punjab government will bring about a major transformation in the agricultural sector, particularly because vast areas of land in Punjab have long remained barren and neglected, with little attention from previous governments. Reviving uncultivated land will create employment opportunities for thousands, enabling people to become custodians of their own land and crops. While ownership is limited to ten years, it still provides a meaningful opportunity to cultivate and develop the land.
The Punjab government is not only providing land but is also ensuring the availability of water, a critical component for agriculture. A review of Maryam Nawaz’s initiatives clearly shows that each project is designed to provide relief to the common citizen.
Traditionally, governments have made announcements of relief without delivering tangible results, reinforcing a widespread perception that the emotions of ordinary people are often exploited. However, Maryam Nawaz strongly contradicts this notion by going out of her way to provide real and practical relief to the public.
This is why people in other provinces are now openly expressing the wish that their own Chief Minister were like Maryam Nawaz. When leaders serve their people with sincerity, the public acknowledges it wholeheartedly.
Today, development work is visible in every corner and street of Punjab, without discrimination. Before initiating infrastructure projects, no distinction is made between areas of political opponents or supporters. In Maryam Nawaz’s vision, there is no room for such bias. This very approach sets her apart from other politicians.
Those who criticize or mock Maryam Nawaz are often the same individuals who once spoke of a “state of Madinah” but in practice introduced policies like hemp cultivation or spoke of bringing economic revolution through unconventional means such as egg-laying hens.
The writer is the PRO of information minister Punjab.