Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah conducted balloting for distribution of 6,000 tractors amongst farmers of the province on Wednesday.
He addressed that the government was taking efforts to boost agriculture sector, adding that in this regard it is giving various subsidies and facilities to farmers.
Provincial government received 18,506 applications out of which 6,000 will receive federal assistance to purchase tractors.
As per the programme, Rs0.2million and Rs 0.3million will be provided for purchase of small tractors and big tractors, respectively. A subsidy of Rs650 million will be given to agricultural sector.
This is the third balloting of tractors wit 8,736 already distributed on subsidised rate through computerised balloting.
Shah also informed that Sindh previously requested to buy wheat from Punjab Goverment but now the province is not only self-sufficient but also able to export it.
Moreover, he explained that more than 65% of Sindh’s population depends on agricultural sector for income, so reforms in the sector are essential for grower’s benefits.
He also cleared concerns and said that government is tackling the rise in load shedding cost of fertiliser.
Syed Qaim Ali Shah said that due to concerted efforts, yield per acre has increased in the province up to 29%.
Lastly, he said that Sindh government is not in favour of levying agriculture tax proposed by federal government and focus should be given on efficient collection of existing taxes.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 26th, 2012.
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