Jhelum farmers get subsidised tractors under Punjab scheme

Jhelum witnessed the next phase of Punjab’s Green Tractor Scheme as 39 local farmers received subsidised tractors under the provincial government’s drive to promote mechanised farming. The beneficiaries hailed from Jhelum, Dina and Sohawa, with 10 selected from Tehsil Jhelum, 10 from Tehsil Dina and 19 from Tehsil Sohawa.

Each tractor carried a subsidy of Rs1 million, representing one of the largest direct support interventions for small farmers in the district. Officials said the scheme is part of a broader e-mechanisation initiative designed to improve access to modern agricultural machinery, boost crop productivity, reduce residue burning, and help limit the winter smog that affects many parts of the province.

Speaking at the distribution ceremony, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani highlighted the impact of new machinery, including super seeders, balers and Kubota equipment. He said these tools are beginning to transform farming practices, moving them toward cleaner and more mechanised operations.

Kayani also outlined several ongoing development projects in the district, noting improvements such as the Lilla–Jhelum Road, new facilities at DHQ Jhelum, a THQ hospital in Dina, and planned connections linking Jhelum to the Lahore–Sialkot Motorway. He added that both federal and provincial authorities are reviewing long-pending requests to provide gas supply to Dina and Sohawa.

Provincial officials said the Green Tractor Scheme is one of Punjab’s flagship agricultural support programmes this year. By reducing equipment costs and modernising production in high-yield districts, they hope to strengthen rural livelihoods, enhance export potential, and support industrial output.