The State Bank of Pakistan (BSC) Lahore, in collaboration with the Bank of Punjab (BOP), recently organized the “Agri Kissan Mela” in Kasur, under the theme “زراعت میں جدت، پاکستان کی ضرورت” (Innovation in Agriculture, Pakistan’s Need). This significant event brought together over 400 farmers, industry experts, representatives from the banking sector, academicians, and government officials to discuss and promote sustainable practices in Pakistan’s agriculture sector.
The primary objective of the event was to advance innovation and sustainability within agriculture, with a focus on empowering the farming community. The Mela provided a platform for interaction, learning, and collaboration, presenting farmers with opportunities to explore modern agricultural solutions and enhance their knowledge base. A wide array of activities enriched the event, including banking and agri-corporate stalls, live demonstrations of agricultural machinery, and informative panel discussions by industry professionals. Cultural performances further added to the vibrancy of the event.
The event saw participation from notable stakeholders and exhibitors such as Millat Tractors, Al-Ghazi Tractors, Universal Tractors, Ravi Agro, Growtech, Kubota, and Kissan Baithak. These organizations showcased their cutting-edge agricultural solutions, allowing farmers to engage directly with the latest tools and techniques in modern farming. The event served as a powerful reminder of how technology and innovation can drive growth in the agricultural sector.
Dr. Muhammad Saleem, the Additional Director of the Financial Inclusion Support Department (FISD) at SBP BSC, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He appreciated the initiative and emphasized the role of financial inclusion in uplifting the agricultural sector. Dr. Saleem highlighted the SBP BSC’s ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between financial institutions and farmers, particularly smallholders. “Our aim is to ensure that farmers, especially smallholders, have access to formal financial services, enabling them to adopt modern agricultural practices, tackle challenges posed by climate change, and improve productivity,” he stated. He further encouraged continued collaboration to build a resilient and inclusive agri-economy.
Mr. Asif Riaz, Group Chief of Consumer Banking at BOP, also shared his insights on the importance of financial inclusion in agriculture. He expressed excitement about the event and its potential to pave the way for the adoption of modern and sustainable agricultural practices in the region. “Such initiatives have the scope to be expanded to other districts to maximize outreach,” he said. Riaz also pointed out the bank’s significant contribution to financial inclusion in agriculture, particularly through digital Agri Financing Solutions. He highlighted the Punjab CM’s Kissan Card initiative, through which BOP had approved Rs. 55 billion to 542,000 small farmers within three months, as well as the successful disbursement of Rs. 650 million in digital Agri loans to small farmers in collaboration with Karnadaaz Pakistan and other fintechs.
Tariq Riaz, the Chief Manager of SBP BSC Lahore, was also present as a guest of honor and spoke about the importance of regional outreach and direct engagement with farmers. “Events like the Agri Kissan Mela serve as an effective platform to raise awareness, connect farmers with financial institutions, and showcase innovative solutions tailored to their needs,” he said. He further emphasized the importance of financial literacy and the need for farmers to have easier access to credit and services at the grassroots level.
The successful conclusion of the Agri Kissan Mela marked a significant step forward in modernizing Pakistan’s agriculture through collaboration, innovation, and community engagement. The event underscored the commitment of SBP BSC Lahore and BOP to support the agricultural sector by providing farmers with the financial tools and knowledge required to thrive in an increasingly complex landscape. This collaboration is expected to pave the way for future initiatives aimed at fostering growth and sustainability in the agricultural sector, ensuring that the country’s farmers are equipped to face the challenges of the future.
