Overview:
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved a major initiative to solarize agricultural tubewells across the province. This project aims to reduce the cost of irrigation and support farmers by shifting from diesel and electricity to solar energy.
Key Details:
- Eligibility: Farmers owning at least 25 acres of agricultural land are eligible for the solarisation project.
- Cost Sharing: The government will cover 67% of the project cost, while farmers will be responsible for the remaining 33%.
- Phases:
- First Phase: Around 7,000 tubewells will be converted to solar energy.
- Second Phase: In collaboration with the federal government, approximately 10,000 additional tubewells will be converted.
- Cost Savings:
- Diesel irrigation costs around Rs. 3,000 per acre.
- Electricity for irrigation costs around Rs. 1,500 per acre.
- Solar energy will reduce the cost to just Rs. 50 per acre.
Additional Measures:
- Vegetable Farmers: Special packages will be devised to support vegetable farmers.
- Supply Management: The Chief Minister has directed the creation of a sustainable and effective supply management system for essential vegetables like onions and tomatoes.
Objective:
The project is part of a broader strategy to enhance agricultural productivity, reduce costs, and promote the welfare of farmers. By transitioning to solar energy, the Punjab government aims to mitigate the challenges posed by expensive electricity and diesel, thereby fostering the prosperity and development of the region.
Official Session:
The approval was announced during a session chaired by CM Maryam Nawaz, attended by various officials including Senator Pervez Rasheed, Senior Provincial Minister Marriyam Aurganzeb, Information Minister Azma Bukhari, Syed Ashiq Hussain Kramani, and key administrative and agricultural secretaries.
