Maryam Nawaz Launches Billion-Rupee Farm Machinery Scheme – Rice Harvester on Easy Installments
The Maryam Nawaz Launches Billion-Rupee Farm Machinery Scheme has taken another historic step towards agricultural modernization with the launch of a Billion-Rupee Farm Machinery Scheme, announced by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. Under this initiative, farmers across Punjab can now obtain Rice Combine Harvesters and other high-tech agricultural equipment on easy installments and subsidies.
For decades, small-scale farmers in Punjab have relied on outdated harvesting methods such as manual cutting or rented machinery, leading to high labor costs, post-harvest losses, and delayed threshing. With this new scheme, the Punjab government aims to empower farmers with advanced technology at affordable prices, significantly improving their productivity and income.
The scheme is part of the broader High-Tech Farm Mechanization Program, launched in collaboration with the Punjab Agriculture Department and leading commercial banks. Maryam Nawaz has emphasized that this is not just a subsidy, but a complete transformation of Punjab’s agricultural economy, ensuring that even low-income farmers can purchase machinery through bank financing, interest-free loans, or government-backed installment plans.
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Key Features of the Farm Machinery Financing Scheme
- ✅ Rice Combine Harvester Available on Easy Installments
- ✅ Interest-Free or Low-Markup Bank Financing Options
- ✅ Government Subsidy Covering a Significant Portion of Machinery Cost
- ✅ Flexible Repayment Plans Ranging from 3 to 5 Years
- ✅ No Heavy Collateral Required for Small Farmers
- ✅ Dedicated Helpline & Support from Agriculture Department
What is a Rice Combine Harvester and Why is it Important?
A Rice Combine Harvester is an advanced machine that cuts, threshes, and cleans rice grains—all in one operation. Traditionally, farmers hire laborers to manually harvest paddy fields, which is slow, expensive, and inefficient.
With a modern combine harvester:
| Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Faster Harvesting | Completes in hours instead of days |
| Reduced Labor Cost | Eliminates need for a large workforce |
| Higher Yield | Minimizes crop losses caused by manual cutting |
| Cleaner Output | Ensures better market price |
This scheme ensures every farmer—whether small, medium, or large-scale—can access this technology without financial burden.
Eligibility Criteria for Farmers
To apply for the Rice Combine Harvester under the scheme, the applicant must:
- Be a resident farmer of Punjab
- Own or lease minimum 5 acres of agricultural land
- Possess a valid CNIC
- Hold a Kisan Card or Bank Account in Own Name
- Be willing to make down payment (if required by bank)
Required Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| CNIC Copy | Identity Verification |
| Land Ownership Papers / Lease Agreement | Eligibility Validation |
| Bank Account Statement | Financing Record |
| Passport Size Photos | For Application Form |
| Kisan Card (If Available) | Priority Processing |
How to Apply for the Rice Harvester Installment Scheme
The government has kept the process very easy and farmer-friendly. You can apply through multiple channels:
✅ Option 1: Visit Your Nearest Agriculture Department Office
- Collect the Farm Machinery Subsidy Form
- Attach the necessary documents
- Submit and get verification
✅ Option 2: Apply via Bank Financing (BoP / ZTBL / HBL)
- Visit the Agricultural Loan Desk
- Request for Farm Mechanization Loan / Harvester Installment Plan
- Bank will verify your land records and CNIC
- Approval within 15–30 days
✅ Option 3: Contact the Official Helpline 0800-17000
- Call the number between 8 AM – 8 PM
- Provide basic details
- They will guide you to the nearest facilitation center
Sample Price & Installment Plan (Estimated)
| Harvester Type | Approx. Market Price | Govt. Subsidy | Farmer’s Contribution | Installment Plan (Per Month) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Rice Combine | Rs. 4,500,000 | Rs. 1,500,000 | Rs. 3,000,000 | Rs. 55,000 – 70,000 |
| Imported Harvester | Rs. 6,500,000 | Rs. 2,000,000 | Rs. 4,500,000 | Rs. 85,000 – 100,000 |
Note: Final prices may vary depending on bank and model selection.
Benefits of the Scheme for Punjab Farmers
- 🚜 Modernization of Agriculture
- 💰 Lower Operational Cost
- ⏱ Faster Harvesting → Timely Wheat Sowing
- 📈 Higher Yield and Profit
- 👨🌾 Empowerment of Small Farmers
Maryam Nawaz has clearly stated that “No farmer in Punjab should be left behind due to lack of machinery.” This scheme aims to bring technology to every field and profit to every farmer.
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Conclusion:
The Maryam Nawaz Launches Billion-Rupee Farm Machinery Scheme marks a new era in Punjab’s agricultural revolution. By allowing farmers to purchase rice combine harvesters on easy installments, the government has removed one of the biggest financial barriers in farm mechanization.
This initiative will not only increase crop yield but also reduce dependence on labor, save time, and boost farmer income. It is a long-term investment in Pakistan’s food security, ensuring that our farmers become owners—not just renters—of advanced machinery.
Whether you are a small farmer with limited resources or a progressive grower aiming for expansion, this is your golden opportunity. Do not wait — apply today, upgrade to high-tech farming, and become part of Punjab’s agricultural success story.
FAQs Maryam Nawaz Launches Billion-Rupee Farm Machinery Scheme 2025:
1. Who can apply for the Rice Combine Harvester Scheme?
Any resident farmer of Punjab who owns or leases agricultural land can apply.
2. Is the installment plan interest-free?
Some banks offer zero markup, while others offer low-interest subsidized loans.
3. Can small farmers with less than 5 acres apply?
Yes, they can apply jointly or through cooperative farming groups.
4. What is the down payment requirement?
Typically 10–20%, depending on the bank.
5. How long is the repayment duration?
Usually 3 to 5 years.
6. Can tenants or leased-land farmers apply?
Yes, but they must provide a lease agreement.
7. Is Kisan Card mandatory?
Not mandatory but recommended for faster processing.
8. Can I buy machinery other than rice harvesters?
Yes, tractors, threshers, laser land levelers, and drones may also be added soon.
9. When will deliveries begin?
Deliveries are expected to start within 30-60 days of approval.
10. How to get more information?
Call the official helpline 0800-17000 or visit your nearest agriculture office.
