LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced the launch of the Apna Khet Apna Rozgar initiative, a major program under which government-owned land across the province will be allocated to 50,000 individuals for agricultural use. Authorities have been instructed to begin immediate implementation to ensure the project delivers results without delay.
The Apna Khet Apna Rozgar program is being described as a game-changing step for Punjab’s agriculture sector and rural economy. By granting access to government land, particularly to individuals from underprivileged backgrounds, the initiative aims to increase agricultural output, strengthen food security, and promote sustainable farming practices. It also seeks to encourage young people to view agriculture as a viable and rewarding profession.
Beyond farming, the program is expected to generate employment across multiple sectors, including Excise, Tourism Police, information technology, and healthcare. These efforts align with the provincial government’s broader target of creating one million jobs within two years. Increased agricultural activity is also likely to stimulate rural economies through higher local spending, growth in livestock-related businesses, cultural activities, and expansion of agribusiness opportunities.
The decision was finalized during the 32nd meeting of the Punjab Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The meeting approved several forward-looking projects and outlined a comprehensive development roadmap for the province. Among the key announcements was the expansion of the “Shandar Green Buses” service from district-level operations to tehsil-level routes, significantly improving public transport access. The cabinet also approved the purchase of 1,000 electric buses and the introduction of a cashless fare system starting March 25, with higher charges for cash payments and seamless options for T-Cash and bank cards.
In addition, the cabinet approved hundreds of new jobs for young professionals in departments such as Crime Control, Excise, Tourism Police, IT & Innovation, and TDCP. Recruitment rules in Tourism, Archaeology, and Museums were eased, while continued employment of Specialized Healthcare ICT staff was ensured. Also Read Step-by-step guide to applying for the ‘Apni Chat Apna Ghar’ scheme
Further approvals included the hiring of 216 constables for Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control, 1,000 personnel for the Crime Control Department, and 980 officers for Murree Tourism Police. To support rural culture, Horse and Cattle Shows will be held in all districts. Favorable rainfall in the Potohar region has also raised hopes for a strong wheat crop this season.
