Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif launched Green Tractor Program by conducting digital balloting, here on Friday. Rs 10 lakh subsidy will be given on each tractor to 9,500 farmers under the scheme. “We want to enter a modern era of mechanisation of agriculture in Punjab,” Maryam Nawaz Sharif observed. The CM termed the Green Tractor Program as relaunch of Nawaz Sharif’s green tractor scheme for farmers in Punjab, after a lapse of 12 years. She inspected four types of green tractors to be given to the farmers, and also rode a tractor to review its features. Maryam Nawaz described tractor driving as a pleasant experience. She was apprised by the authorities concerned after the balloting,”Mohammad Yasin, son of Mohammad Ashraf of Okara, is the first farmer to get a green tractor. Talib Hussain, son of Muhammad Hussain of Chakwal, is the second farmer, while Ghulam Akbar son of Haji Ghulam Hussain of Dera Ghazi Khan is the third farmer to get a green tractor.” She was further briefed that 339 farmers in Okara, 111 in Chakwal and 276 farmers in DG Khan will get green tractors under the scheme. CM congratulated all farmers who got green tractors, and said,”Names of all lucky winners have been displayed on the portal of “CM Punjab Green Tractor Scheme”and the website of Agriculture Department.” The list of successful farmers is also available in the offices of Agriculture Department. She also announced to give 1000 green tractors to wheat growers on 25-50 acres of land absolutely free of cost through balloting. Provincial Agriculture Minister Ashiq Hussain Kirmani gave a detailed briefing about the Green Tractor Scheme on the occasion. Pak-US cooperation: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif met USAID Mission Director Veeraya Kate Somvongsiri, US Consul General Kristin Hawkins and USAID Punjab Chapter representative Arisha Bano. Matters pertaining to mutual interest, Pak-U.S relations and promoting ties in various sectors were discussed. It was agreed to enhance cooperation in trade, climate change, renewable energy, women’s economic empowerment, health care and education. CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif said, “We want to benefit from USAID experience based on green energy and modern technology in order to cope up with climate change and environmental pollution issues. Pink buttons, virtual police stations have been established for the protection of women. Internship programs are being conducted in a modern way for skilled human resource.” She added, “Partnership between Pakistan and US is crucial for regional peace and development. We are striving to further strengthen our relationship between Pakistan and USA. Pakistan is safer and peaceful than in the past. PML-N government has set new standards of good governance and transparency. Pakistan has achieved great success in the war against terrorism and extremism.” Enhancing investment opportunities keeping in view future requirements were considered during the meeting. Exploring opportunities to further improve relations between people of the two countries were also discussed. PBA chairman: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif congratulated newly elected Chairman Mian Amir Mehmood and other office-bearers of Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA). She expressed best wishes for PBA Chairman Mian Amir Mehmood, Secretary General Shakeel Masood, Senior Vice President Salman Iqbal and other officials. Mustang school bombing: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has expressed her profound sorrow over the tragic loss of four lives, including children, in the bomb blast at Mustang’s Girls High School. The CM condemned the bombing incident, offered her condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the families affected by this horrific incident. Diwali: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has extended heartfelt greetings to the Hindu community on the occasion of Diwali. In her message, she remarked, “The lamp of Diwali awakens love”, expressing her joy in interacting with Hindu families during the special Diwali celebrations. The CM announced the launch of a Special Minority Card for minority communities on December 20 and the establishment of a “Minority Virtual Police Station” under the Mahfooz Punjab Vision initiative, aimed at enhancing support and security for minorities.