Rawalpindi Staff Reporter
In a major step towards agricultural development in the Pothohar region, the Punjab government has initiated the allotment of mini dams under the Agricultural Transformation Plan introduced by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. A lottery ceremony was held in Rawalpindi district, where selected farmers were awarded mini dams on 70% government subsidy.
The event was attended by MPA and Chairman Chief Minister’s Inspection Team Raja Muhammad Hanif Advocate and MPA Gujjar Khan Raja Shaukat Ali Bhatti as chief guests. Out of a total of 42 applicants, 25 lucky farmers were selected through balloting. These included 12 from Rawalpindi, 10 from Gujjar Khan, and 3 from Kahuta.
Under the plan, a total of 400 mini dams will be constructed across the Pothohar region over the next three years — 100 in the first year, 150 in the second, and another 150 in the third year. These dams aim to improve water storage capacity, conserve water resources, and provide efficient irrigation for crops, orchards, and vegetables. The initiative is expected to significantly boost agricultural productivity in the region.
Addressing the event, Raja Muhammad Hanif Advocate praised the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, saying that historic steps have been taken to uplift agriculture within just 1.5 years. The Agricultural Transformation Plan, he said, is a precious gift for Pothohar farmers and includes components such as modern agricultural research, cultivation of high-value crops, irrigation system reforms, and the provision of high-quality horticultural plants.
He further noted that the Punjab government has introduced practical support systems like the Kisan Card, interest-free agricultural loans, and subsidized green tractors, providing real relief to farmers.
Speaking at the ceremony, MPA Raja Shaukat Ali Bhatti highlighted the challenges of irrigation in rain-fed (barani) areas, where uneven terrain and deep water levels make cultivation difficult. He emphasized that the mini dam scheme is a practical solution that will help reclaim barren lands and support the adoption of modern farming techniques.
