Punjab launches Rs36b climate-smart farm subsidy

Punjab has launched a climate-smart mechanisation programme backed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), offering subsidised farm machinery to cut production costs and raise crop yields. The initiative, titled *Transforming Punjab's Agriculture through Climate Smart Mechanisation, was inaugurated on Friday by Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture Usama Khan Laghari.

Under the programme, Rs36.12 billion will be spent on mechanised cultivation and harvesting of wheat and rice, with farmers eligible for a 30% subsidy on agricultural machinery. Officials said the scheme aims to improve productivity while promoting climate-resilient farming practices across the province.

Laghari said the provincial government had spent Rs66 billion over the past two years on mechanisation initiatives, which he said were expected to increase output and significantly reduce farmers' cost of production.

Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo said the programme also includes the establishment of a dedicated training institute for machinery operators and mechanics.

ADB Country Director Xiaoqin Emma Fan assured full cooperation for promoting climate-resilient agriculture in Punjab and commended province's reforms.