The Punjab government has officially launched Phase II of the Livestock Card Scheme following the remarkable success of the initial phase. A statement issued in Lahore on Wednesday confirmed that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the second phase digitally by swiping a Livestock Card, marking a significant step toward modernizing the agricultural sector.
During the ceremony, a special documentary showcasing the various initiatives undertaken by the Livestock Department was screened for the attendees. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed her deep satisfaction regarding the 96 per cent recovery rate achieved during Phase I, noting that this success reflects the trust and commitment of the farming community toward government-led economic reforms.
Provincial Minister for Livestock Ashiq Hussain Kirmani and Secretary Livestock Ahmad Aziz Tarrar provided a comprehensive briefing on the operational framework of the scheme. They informed the participants that under this phase, farmers would receive Rs27,000 per animal through the Livestock Card, which is designed to facilitate direct financial assistance to those in need.
The scheme allows farmers to purchase essential supplies, including Wanda (animal feed), silage, and various mineral mixtures, through interest-free loans. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the financial burden on small-scale farmers while ensuring that livestock receive the necessary nutrition to maintain health and productivity.
Under Phase II, the provincial government has set an ambitious target to increase meat production by improving the balanced nutrition of 600,000 animals over the next two years. This strategic move is aimed at stabilizing meat prices in the local market and potentially boosting exports in the long run.
In total, farmers will receive interest-free loans worth Rs16.2 billion under this scheme. The policy dictates that while the principal amount will be repaid by the farmers, the Punjab government will bear the entire interest cost, effectively subsidizing the agricultural input costs for the rural population.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the government is committed to the welfare of the livestock sector, which serves as the backbone of the rural economy. She noted that such initiatives are vital for achieving food security and economic stability in the province.
Meanwhile, Maryam Nawaz also took the opportunity to congratulate the nation and the project team on the successful test of the extended-range Fateh-2 hypersonic ballistic missile. She lauded the efforts of the scientists and engineers involved in the project.
She described the missile test as a proud achievement for the Pakistan Army and the nation's defense capabilities. The Chief Minister stated that such technological advancements are essential for maintaining regional balance and national security.
The event concluded with a renewed pledge from the provincial government to continue supporting the agricultural and livestock sectors through digital innovation and financial empowerment, ensuring that the benefits of these policies reach the grassroots level across Punjab.