LMKT Signs Agreement With Government of Punjab on Digital Farming Initiative

LMKT has joined hands with the Government of Punjab, Department of Agriculture, to improve farming practices in Pakistan and revolutionize the agri-tech industry of the country. The project aims to build and support productive and efficient farms by leveraging modern ICT platforms to develop and communicate accurate and relevant agronomic advisories to farmers.

The signing ceremony took place in the presence of dignitaries from the Department of Agriculture, Punjab and LMKT on November 15th, 2016 in Lahore. The officials present included Dr. Muhammad Anjum Ali, Director General; Mr. Imran Ahmad, Project Director Agriculture Department; Mr. Rana Muhammad Safdar, Deputy Director Admin & Finance; Mr. Nasir Tanveer, Vice President of LMKT; and Mr. Ali Hasan, Regional Manager at LMKT.

The core objective of this project is to increase agriculture productivity and income by transforming farmers’ ability to increase crop yields and contribution towards inclusive economic growth. Taking maximum advantage of innovative advancements of technology in the communication and agriculture sectors, the project will play a key role in registration and mapping of over four million farmers across thirty-six districts of Punjab.

Pakistan’s agriculture sector plays a pivotal role in its economy and together with agro-based products fetches 80% of the country’s total export earnings. Involving both the public and the private sectors in ICT interventions will ensure establishment of a well-informed and prosperous farming community throughout the country.

LMKT aims to contribute to inclusive economic growth in Pakistan by empowering farmers through sustainable and scalable ICT based facilitation services with easier access. The agreement is in line with Government of Pakistan’s long-term mission for sustainable food security and making agriculture cost effective as well as knowledge based, with an emphasis on farmer’s welfare.