Punjab Secretary of Agriculture, Iftikhar Ali Sahoo, emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration with China to integrate advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence, robotics, and electric tractors into Punjab’s agricultural sector for enhanced productivity and modernization.
During a meeting with a five-member delegation from Chinese tractor manufacturer AI-Force, led by CEO Han Wei, Sahoo underscored the potential for Punjab’s agricultural growth with China’s technological support and knowledge transfer. The delegation convened at the Agriculture House in Lahore on Tuesday to explore areas of cooperation.
Han Wei assured Punjab of AI-Force’s full commitment to transferring agricultural technologies. He explained that his company would help establish digital plantations, digital laboratories, and satellite-based monitoring systems while advancing agricultural research. Highlighting the efficiency and affordability of AI-Force’s electric tractors, he noted the significant opportunities for collaboration to promote smart agriculture and modern farming techniques.
Han Wei also acknowledged the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and China, citing China’s leadership in agricultural technology and innovation. He provided insights into the “Transforming Punjab Agriculture Programme,” a Rs400 billion initiative launched by Punjab’s Chief Minister to modernize the province’s agricultural sector. Under this program, farmers can access Rs150 billion in interest-free loans via the Punjab Kisan Card.
Additionally, the Chief Minister Punjab Green Tractor Programme has allocated Rs30 billion in its initial phase, subsidizing Rs1 million per tractor for 9,500 farmers, making it the largest mechanized farming subsidy in Pakistan’s history. Another major project, the Agricultural Tube Wells Solarization Programme, is converting 8,000 electric and diesel tube wells to solar power at a cost of Rs9 billion, significantly reducing production costs for farmers. Plans also include developing four model agriculture malls to provide farmers with world-class facilities.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Special Secretary of Agriculture Agha Nabeel Akhtar, Project Director of the PESP Department of Agriculture Dr. Anjum Ali, CEO of Punjab Board of Investment and Trade Jalal Hassan, Director General of Agricultural Information Naveed Asmat Kahloon, and other senior officials.
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