Punjab is set to transform its dairy farming sector by adopting Italy’s advanced agricultural practices. The province will launch a modern dairy farming project, aiming to boost milk and cheese production, upgrade packaging standards, and introduce cutting-edge dairy machinery.
Pilot Project in Three Districts
The initiative, directed by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, will begin with a pilot project in Pakpattan, Muzaffargarh, and Jhang. In the first phase, 1,000 buffaloes will be introduced to test the feasibility of Italian dairy techniques.
Senior Punjab ministers met with an Italian dairy investment delegation to finalize the plan. The collaboration seeks to modernize milk production, processing, and export while ensuring small farmers benefit from new technologies.
Key Objectives of the Initiative
Punjab’s dairy transformation plan has several major goals:
- Increase milk and cheese output using Italian breeding and feeding techniques.
- Enhance packaging and preservation to meet international export standards.
- Introduce modern dairy equipment, including advanced cooling and storage systems.
- Support small farmers and women, especially in flood-affected areas.
Government Support and Investment
The Punjab government has already taken steps to support farmers. It has provided 15,000 livestock cards and distributed Rs80 billion in subsidies to improve the livestock sector.
During the meeting, Livestock Minister Aashiq Hussain briefed Italian investors on Punjab’s dairy development plans. The investors expressed interest in long-term collaboration, highlighting Italy’s global expertise in dairy and agricultural production.
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Green Pakistan Initiative: A Parallel Agricultural Reform
Punjab’s dairy project aligns with the Green Pakistan Initiative, launched last week in Cholistan. This broader agricultural reform aims to modernize farming and provide farmers with affordable resources.
The initiative includes:
- Green Agri Mall and Service Company, offering high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides at discounted prices.
- Smart Agri Farms, integrating technology and data-driven farming for higher yields.
- Agricultural Research and Facility Centres, promoting innovation and training.
- Affordable rental options for drones and modern farming equipment.
The launch ceremony was attended by Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, and Federal Ministers Rana Tanveer Hussain and Musadik Malik.
A New Era for Punjab’s Dairy Sector
By combining Italian expertise with local initiatives, Punjab aims to create a self-sustaining dairy industry. The introduction of modern technology, better livestock management, and improved export standards will help small farmers compete globally.
With strategic partnerships and government support, Punjab is on track to become a leader in dairy production in the region.
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