Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has inaugurated a project aimed at converting agricultural tube wells to solar energy, with the objective of lowering expenses and improving productivity for farmers throughout the province.
In the initial phase of the project, 8,000 tube wells will be transitioned to solar power, with beneficiaries chosen through a lottery system. The first individual selected was Muhammad Nawaz from Attock.
At the launch event, a list of eligible farmers from the Narowal district was also examined.
The shift to solar-powered wells is anticipated to offer substantial financial relief to farmers, potentially allowing them to save up to Rs. 10,000 daily and more than Rs. 3.25 lakh monthly.
To support this transition, the Punjab government is providing subsidies: Rs. 5 lakh for a 10 kW system, Rs. 7.5 lakh for a 15 kW system, and Rs. 1 million for a 20 kW system.
With over 530,000 applications submitted, 385,000 farmers have been identified as eligible. The government aims to convert 87% of diesel and electric tube wells to solar energy by June.
Maryam Nawaz underscored that this initiative would modernize the agricultural sector in Punjab by decreasing operational costs and enhancing efficiency.
She also pointed out additional support programs for farmers, including Kisan Cards, advanced agricultural equipment, and training opportunities to further empower the farming community.
