Punjab CM Maryam conducts balloting of 'Apna Khet Apna Rozgar' scheme 

Lahore (Web Desk): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has reiterated her government's resolve to uplift farmers and open new avenues of employment for young people through agriculture-led development initiatives.

Speaking at the balloting ceremony of the Apna Khet Apna Rozgar Scheme in Lahore, she described agriculture as the foundation of Pakistan's economy, noting that the sector continues to make a significant contribution to the country's economic growth and national development.

The chief minister also completed the computerized draw for the scheme, formally launching the process of distributing agricultural land among the successful applicants. During the event, she personally telephoned one of the selected beneficiaries to congratulate him and share the news of his successful allocation.

Maryam Nawaz announced that the programme is expected to benefit 30,000 people, with the objective of promoting agricultural activity while creating lasting employment and income-generating opportunities throughout Punjab.

As part of the initiative, eligible farmers and young applicants will receive four acres of farmland on a 20-year lease. To help them begin cultivation, the provincial government will also provide each beneficiary with financial support of Rs200,000 to cover initial farming expenses.

The scheme drew between 20,000 and 30,000 applications, with the final selection carried out through a transparent, merit-based balloting process.

Addressing the gathering, the chief minister said the programme has been launched to enhance agricultural output while providing productive job opportunities for the youth.

She further instructed the Agriculture Department to identify additional cultivable land so that more deserving applicants can be accommodated under the scheme in the coming phases.