Tech Desk 
Jul 18, 2025
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday instructed the government to prepare a comprehensive plan by the end of July to provide easy-term agricultural loans and modern farming practices to small farmers in Pakistan, particularly those who have less than 12 acres of land.
Agriculture sustains more than 60% of the rural population in Pakistan with crop production, livestock, and other related activities.
However, agriculture in Pakistan is faced with serious challenges, such as a lack of modern farming methods, reduced water supplies, reliance on expensive imported seeds and fertilisers, climate vulnerabilities, and scarce access to affordable credit.
At a high-level meeting in Islamabad on agricultural planning and finance, PM stated that Pakistan's economic growth is contingent on increasing agricultural productivity and adding value to the farmer's product.
"Facilitating end-users or the small farmer(s) in the development of the agriculture sector in Pakistan is a priority for the government," he stated.
The prime minister requested a plan to lend money on easy terms for modern agricultural equipment, artificial intelligence-based solutions, and good-quality seeds. He also wanted a roadmap allowing farmers the opportunity for small-scale industrial equipment for crop processing and quality goods for export.
The government is fast-tracking the reforms to offer modern equipment, AI-based solutions in farming, better seeds, and
Officials briefed PM Sharif on the performance of Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) and ongoing loan disbursement processes. The prime minister instructed that a detailed, modern agri-financing plan be ready by the end of July to better support farmers’ needs.
