The Government of Punjab has announced a major expansion in its livestock support program, doubling the quota of free animals for rural women. The initiative, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, aims to strengthen livelihoods and promote economic growth in underserved areas.
Free Livestock Program Expanded
The government has increased the number of animals distributed to women, especially widows and divorced individuals. So far, around 9,255 animals have already been provided across 12 districts of South Punjab.
According to Beyond Time News, the move is designed to empower rural women by helping them generate income through livestock farming.
International Partnerships and Export Plans
As part of the broader strategy, the Punjab government has signed agreements with seven organizations, including a Chinese meat processing company.
Under this plan, the Chinese firm will work with Punjab Agriculture and Meat Company to set up a large-scale boiler unit. This facility will enable industrial-level processing of boiled meat for export.
Officials said the companies involved will initially import meat from around 300,000 animals ready for export. At the same time, ambitious targets have been set to prepare livestock for international markets:
- 300,000 cows and buffalo for fattening
- 300,000 sheep and rams
- 100,000 goats and sheep for export
Modernizing Livestock Farming
The government is also focusing on modernizing the livestock sector. Plans include introducing advanced machinery with subsidies of up to 60 percent.
Farmers will benefit from discounted equipment such as milk chillers, feed mixers, milk coolers, and weighing scales. These upgrades aim to improve efficiency and productivity in rural farming.
Better Veterinary Services Across Punjab
To support farmers, modern veterinary hospitals will be established in every tehsil. In addition, four mobile veterinary units per tehsil will provide treatment in remote rural areas.
This step is expected to improve animal health and reduce losses for farmers.
Improving Livestock Quality and Tracking
Authorities plan to tag two million animals for better tracking and monitoring. Alongside this, two million doses of breeding semen will be provided at subsidized rates to enhance livestock quality.
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Strong Disease Control Measures
Officials confirmed that no major livestock disease outbreaks, including Lumpy Skin Disease and Haemorrhagic Septicaemia, have been reported since 2022, even after recent floods.
Locally produced vaccines are now widely available and cost much less than imported options, making disease prevention more accessible for farmers.
A Step Toward Rural Empowerment
This initiative reflects the Punjab government’s focus on rural development, women’s empowerment, and boosting exports. By expanding livestock distribution and modernizing the sector, the program aims to create long-term economic opportunities across the province.
