New project targets rural prosperity

Scheme aims to uplift 850,000 individuals including farmers in Hazara Division

BALAKOT:

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government has launched rapid implementation of its revolutionary "Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Rural Economic Transformation Project" to revive the province's rural economy and improve farmers' livelihoods.

The mega project, with a budget of Rs50 billion, is expected to benefit 850,000 individuals, including thousands of farmers in the Hazara Division, covering several rural areas of Balakot.

The project aims to modernise the agriculture and livestock sectors and increase incomes for smallholder farmers. Under this initiative, the government, private companies, and farmer organisations will work collaboratively to provide farmers with high-quality seeds, fertilisers, and modern agricultural machinery.

A significant portion of the project is dedicated to livestock farmers, offering modern feed (silage) and animal health facilities to boost milk and meat production.

Recent efforts have linked nearly 2,000 small farmers, including women and youth, directly to markets. In collaboration with KP-TEVTA, graduates are being offered financial support (start-up capital) and employment opportunities to launch their own businesses.

One of the biggest challenges for farmers has been securing fair prices for their crops. The KP-RETP project connects farmers with major markets and private companies, ensuring better compensation for their produce.

To oversee implementation and guide farmers, Regional Coordination Units (RCUs) have been established in Peshawar, Mansehra, Chitral, Swat, and D.I. Khan, providing local support.