QUETTA: Officials in Balochistan distributed Rs3.26 billion in interest-free loans to 847 farmers under the second phase of Green Pakistan Initiative, a programme aimed at boosting agricultural output across the province.

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti presided over a ceremony in Quetta where cheques were handed to farmers for cultivation across 35,609 acres. Corps Commander Balochistan Lt Gen Rahat Naseem Ahmed Khan and other senior military and civil officials also attended.

“Such measures promote agriculture, a major source of Pakistan’s exports,” CM Bugti said, adding that the provincial government would play a key role in supporting farmers and advancing prosperity in Balochistan.

The second phase builds on the success of the initiative’s first round, which provided Rs685 million in interest-free loans to 257 farmers under the 12 Corps headquarters.

Officials described that phase as successful as a documentary showcasing the programme’s achievements was screened during the event.

Local farmers praised the initiative, calling it a farmer-friendly programme that would ease financial burdens and help transform barren land into productive farmland.

They said it would not only reduce our challenges but also bring prosperity and usher in an agricultural revolution in Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, February 20th, 2026