In a significant move to boost Pakistan's agricultural economy, Punjab Livestock Minister Ashiq Hussain Kirmani has unveiled comprehensive measures to strengthen the livestock industry, emphasizing its crucial role in national GDP, employment generation, and food security.
Major Financial Support for Farmers
During his recent visit to Sargodha, Minister Kirmani announced that the provincial government is providing substantial financial assistance to livestock farmers. Each eligible farmer can now access an interest-free loan of Rs540,000 specifically for purchasing livestock feed to ensure proper animal nutrition and productivity.
The minister revealed that over the past two years, the government has already distributed loans worth Rs11 billion to support the livestock sector, demonstrating the administration's strong commitment to agricultural development.
Disease Prevention and Healthcare Initiatives
Addressing critical health concerns in the livestock population, Minister Kirmani shared impressive achievements in animal healthcare. Approximately 2.2 million animals have been successfully rescued from flood-affected areas across Punjab and vaccinated to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
In a groundbreaking development, the minister announced that Pakistan's first 'disease-free zone' is being established in Bahawalnagar. This pioneering initiative represents a major step forward in livestock management and disease control, showcasing the government's dedication to modernizing the sector.
Comprehensive Modernization Strategy
The livestock development plan includes organizing stakeholders' conferences in all major cities across Punjab to gather input from industry experts and farmers. These conferences aim to address challenges and develop practical solutions for sector growth.
Highlighting the government's broader agricultural vision, Minister Kirmani disclosed that Rs30 billion has been allocated for agricultural mechanization, with parallel efforts focused on modernizing and mechanizing the livestock sector to enhance productivity and efficiency.
The minister emphasized that the 'Role of Government in the Development of Livestock' remains a top priority, with these initiatives providing solid evidence of the incumbent administration's sincere efforts toward public welfare and comprehensive rural development.
