ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani stressed the need to maximise relief for poor and deserving farmers to effectively ease their financial hardships. He underscored that the process of loan disbursement should be made simpler, transparent, and accessible to the common farmer to ensure meaningful agricultural growth and rural prosperity.

He had a meeting with the President of Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti, at Parliament House and discussed the agricultural situation of the country and challenges faced by farmers.

The president of ZTBL briefed the Senate chairman on the Bank’s loan programs designed for farmers and landowners, including financial facilities offered on easy terms and various relief packages introduced to enhance agricultural productivity.

He informed that the Bank is providing timely financial assistance to farmers for seeds, fertilisers, agricultural machinery, and other essential inputs in line with modern requirements to strengthen the agricultural sector.

He also briefed the Chairman of the Senate, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, on special relief schemes introduced for small-scale farmers and medium-sized landowners.

Under these initiatives, loans are being extended through easy instalments, reduced markup rates, and transparent procedures to ensure wider accessibility.

These measures are expected to directly benefit farmers and further reinforce the role of agriculture in the national economy. Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani appreciated the efforts of ZTBL, stating that agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and providing relief to farmers remains a national priority.

He reaffirmed that Parliament will continue to extend full support for farmer-friendly policies and the development of the agricultural sector.

He further emphasised that ZTBL plays a pivotal role in promoting agricultural prosperity, rural development, and food security in the country by empowering farmers financially and contributing significantly to national progress.

Published in Dawn, March 4th, 2026