In a significant development, a special meeting convened by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, alongside former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, has paved the way for providing solar panels to farmers for their tubewells. This initiative aims to alleviate the burdensome costs of electricity and gas, thereby ensuring sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
Addressing Rising Energy Costs
During the meeting, Nawaz Sharif underscored the escalating expenses of electricity and gas, expressing concerns over their impact on the populace. He emphasized the pivotal role of solar panels in mitigating these costs, urging substantial government investment in solar energy technologies.
Ensuring Fair Compensation and Mitigating Exploitation
Highlighting the plight of farmers, Nawaz stressed the importance of fair compensation for their labor while cautioning against exploitation by middlemen. This move aligns with the government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of agricultural communities.
Tackling Past Financial Challenges
A critical aspect discussed in the meeting was the examination of past governmental practices, notably concerning wheat supply to mills at below-market rates. This practice has resulted in a staggering debt of Rs630 billion, with a looming risk of escalation to Rs1.1 trillion. Such insights underscore the urgency for strategic interventions in the agricultural sector.
Forward-looking Strategies
CM Maryam Nawaz pledged to introduce modern machinery and explore drip irrigation techniques to enhance farming efficiency and mitigate water consumption. Additionally, she emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the soaring prices of fertilizers, further solidifying the government’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
The meeting was attended by senior provincial ministers including Maryam Aurangzeb, Azma Bukhari, Bilal Yasin, Syed Ashiq, along with other key officials, highlighting the collective effort towards implementing green energy policies and fostering agricultural sustainability in Punjab. This initiative marks a significant step towards harnessing solar energy for agricultural development and underscores Punjab’s commitment to environmental stewardship and economic resilience.
Source：dunyanews.tv
