Maryam Nawaz’s Agricultural Internship Program: Empowering Punjab’s Youth
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched a transformative initiative to empower young agricultural graduates through the Chief Minister Punjab Agriculture Graduates Internship Program. With the vision of “Kisan Prosper – Punjab Prosper,” this revolutionary program aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical experience, fostering a skilled workforce to modernize Punjab’s agricultural sector. Following the resounding success of its first phase, the second phase has begun, offering opportunities to 2,000 young graduates with a generous monthly stipend of Rs. 60,000. This article explores the program’s details, eligibility criteria, district quotas, application process, and its impact on Punjab’s youth and agricultural landscape.
Program Overview: A Vision for Agricultural Prosperity
The Chief Minister Punjab Agriculture Graduates Internship Program is a flagship initiative under Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, designed to equip young graduates with hands-on experience in agricultural enterprises. With a budget of Rs. 759 million, the program targets 2,000 graduates in its second phase, providing them with practical training to enhance employability and contribute to Punjab’s economic growth. The initiative aligns with the Punjab government’s commitment to modernizing agriculture, a sector that employs a significant portion of Pakistan’s workforce and contributes substantially to its GDP.
- Objective: Equip young graduates with professional skills, leadership abilities, and practical experience in agriculture.
- Stipend: Rs. 60,000 per month for a one-year internship.
- Duration: 12 months, offering immersive training in agricultural practices.
- Target Group: Fresh graduates in agriculture-related fields.
This program not only supports financial independence for young graduates but also addresses challenges like outdated farming methods and limited job opportunities in the sector. By fostering collaboration, coordination, and communication skills, the initiative prepares interns for long-term career success. For more details, visit the Punjab Agriculture Department’s official website.
District Quota Details
The program allocates internship opportunities across various districts in Punjab, ensuring equitable representation. Below is a table summarizing the district-wise quota for the second phase:
| District | Quota |
|---|---|
| Layyah | 45 |
| Chiniot | 30 |
| Jhang | 17 |
| Toba Tek Singh | 83 |
| Okara | 21 |
| Jhelum | 12 |
| Sargodha | 75 |
| Bhakkar | 41 |
| Khushab | 0 |
| Faisalabad | 16 |
| Hafizabad | 22 |
| Gujranwala | 31 |
| Sialkot | 50 |
| Sheikhupura | 34 |
| Nankana Sahib | 58 |
| Kasur | 12 |
| Multan | 27 |
| Lodhran | 0 |
| Vehari | 13 |
| Sahiwal | 20 |
| Pakpattan | 108 |
| Bahawalpur | 21 |
Note: The quota distribution ensures opportunities are spread across Punjab, with priority given to districts with higher agricultural activity. Candidates must apply within their domiciled district to be eligible.
Eligibility Criteria
To ensure the program reaches the most suitable candidates, specific eligibility criteria have been outlined:
- Educational Qualification:
- B.Sc. (Hons) in Agriculture or related fields such as Crop Sciences, Horticulture, Agronomy, Soil Science, Plant Breeding and Genetics, or Agricultural Sciences.
- Degree must be from a recognized institution by the Higher Education Commission (HEC).
- Age Limit: Maximum 25 years as of the application deadline.
- Domicile: Must hold a domicile from the concerned district in Punjab.
- Recent Graduates: Preference for candidates who completed their degree within the last two years (from June 2023 to August 2025).
These criteria ensure that the program targets motivated, young talent ready to contribute to Punjab’s agricultural sector. For detailed eligibility guidelines, refer to the Punjab Government’s official portal.
Application Submission Procedure
Applying for the Chief Minister Punjab Agriculture Graduates Internship Program is straightforward and accessible. Candidates can follow these steps to submit their applications:
- Visit the Official Website: Access the application form and detailed guidelines on the Punjab Agriculture Department website or contact the office of the Deputy Director of Agriculture (Extension) in your district.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the form with accurate personal, educational, and contact details.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Academic certificates (B.Sc. Hons. Agriculture or equivalent).
- Proof of Punjab domicile.
- Age verification documents (CNIC or birth certificate).
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Submit the Application: Deliver the completed form and documents to the office of the concerned Deputy Director of Agriculture (Extension).
- Contact for Assistance: For queries, reach out to the Agricultural Helpline at 0800-17000 (available 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM).
Application Deadline: The last date to submit applications is October 31, 2025. Ensure timely submission to avoid missing this opportunity.
Impact of the Program
The Chief Minister Punjab Agriculture Graduates Internship Program is more than just an internship—it’s a catalyst for change in Punjab’s agricultural landscape. By providing hands-on training, the program addresses critical challenges such as outdated farming techniques and limited job opportunities for graduates. Key benefits include:
- Skill Development: Interns gain practical experience in modern agricultural practices, enhancing their employability.
- Financial Support: A monthly stipend of Rs. 60,000 supports financial independence during the internship.
- Industry Exposure: Interns work with leading agricultural firms, fostering professional networks and career growth.
- Economic Growth: By empowering young graduates, the program contributes to Punjab’s agricultural productivity and economic development.
The initiative has been praised for its focus on youth empowerment and agricultural innovation. According to a report by The Express Tribune, the program’s first phase was a resounding success, with interns reporting significant improvements in their professional skills and job prospects.
Why This Program Matters
Under Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, Punjab is taking bold steps to modernize its agricultural sector. The Kisan Prosper – Punjab Prosper vision underscores the importance of investing in youth to drive economic progress. By offering 2,000 internship opportunities in the second phase, the program ensures that young graduates play a pivotal role in transforming Punjab’s agricultural landscape. This initiative aligns with broader government efforts, such as the Green Tractor Scheme and Kisan Card, to support farmers and modernize agriculture.
FAQs
What is the Chief Minister Punjab Agriculture Graduates Internship Program?
The program, launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, offers 2,000 internships to young agricultural graduates in Punjab, providing a monthly stipend of Rs. 60,000 for one year to enhance their skills and employability.
Who is eligible to apply?
Candidates must hold a B.Sc. (Hons) in Agriculture or related fields, be under 25 years old, and have a Punjab domicile from the concerned district.
How can I apply for the internship?
Visit the Punjab Agriculture Department website to download the application form, complete it, and submit it with required documents to the Deputy Director of Agriculture (Extension) in your district.
What is the application deadline?
The last date to submit applications is October 31, 2025.
How is the stipend disbursed?
The Rs. 60,000 monthly stipend is performance-based and disbursed through banking channels.
Can I apply from any district in Punjab?
Yes, but you must apply through the Deputy Director of Agriculture (Extension) in your domiciled district.
Conclusion
The Chief Minister Punjab Agriculture Graduates Internship Program is a landmark initiative by Maryam Nawaz Sharif to empower Punjab’s youth and modernize the agricultural sector. With a monthly stipend of Rs. 60,000, hands-on training, and opportunities across various districts, the program is a stepping stone for young graduates to build successful careers. Don’t miss this chance to contribute to Punjab’s prosperity—apply before the October 31, 2025 deadline through the Punjab Agriculture Department or contact the Agricultural Helpline at 0800-17000.
