In a continued effort to promote financial inclusion and sustainable agricultural practices, the State Bank of Pakistan Banking Services Corporation (SBP BSC) Lahore, in partnership with the Bank of Punjab (BOP), successfully organized the “Agri Kissan Mela” in Kasur. Held under the theme “زراعت میں جدت، پاکستان کی ضرورت” (Innovation in Agriculture, Pakistan’s Need), the event served as a vibrant platform for connecting farmers with financial institutions, agri-tech innovators, and policymakers.
Drawing a crowd of more than 400 farmers, along with academicians, banking professionals, government officials, and agricultural experts, the event was designed to highlight the significance of integrating modern farming technologies with accessible financial services. A wide variety of activities were conducted, including interactive stalls hosted by banks and agri-corporates, live demonstrations of agricultural machinery, cultural performances, and panel discussions featuring industry leaders.
Leading names in the agri-equipment and technology sector such as Millat Tractors, Al-Ghazi Tractors, Universal Tractors, Ravi Agro, Growtech, Kubota, and Kissan Baithak showcased cutting-edge farming tools and solutions. These exhibitors not only demonstrated their offerings but also engaged directly with farmers to discuss practical ways to improve productivity and sustainability in agricultural practices.
The event was graced by Dr. Muhammad Saleem, Additional Director of the Financial Inclusion Support Department at SBP BSC, as the chief guest. In his remarks, Dr. Saleem emphasized the developmental role of the central bank in bridging the longstanding gap between financial services and the farming community. He noted that empowering smallholder farmers through formal financial services is critical, especially in light of climate challenges impacting crop yields and farming stability.
“Our aim is to ensure that farmers, particularly smallholders, are financially included so they can adopt modern agricultural practices and improve their livelihoods,” Dr. Saleem stated. He commended the collective efforts of all participants and encouraged continued collaboration to create a resilient and inclusive agricultural economy.
Group Chief – Consumer Banking at BOP, Mr. Asif Riaz, highlighted the bank’s active role in fostering agricultural growth. He pointed out that BOP is spearheading both conventional and digital financing solutions to support farmers. Notable among these is the CM Punjab Kissan Card initiative, under which BOP approved Rs. 55 billion in financing for over 542,000 small farmers within just three months. He also noted the success of the bank’s Digital Agri Lending program, which has disbursed 690 digital loans worth Rs. 650 million in collaboration with Karandaaz Pakistan, agri-tech startups, and fintech partners.
Mr. Tariq Riaz, Chief Manager of SBP BSC Lahore and Guest of Honor, stressed the importance of regional outreach and community engagement. He described the Agri Kissan Mela as an effective platform for building trust, increasing financial literacy, and facilitating access to credit at the grassroots level. Mr. Riaz praised the collaboration between SBP BSC, BOP, and other stakeholders, noting that such joint efforts are instrumental in modernizing Pakistan’s agriculture sector.
The Agri Kissan Mela concluded on an optimistic note, marking a critical milestone in driving financial inclusion and innovation in farming. Both SBP BSC Lahore and the Bank of Punjab reaffirmed their commitment to continue empowering farmers through educational, financial, and technological support, aiming to create a more productive and inclusive future for Pakistan’s agri-economy.
