Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has launched the ‘Aqua Shrimp Farming Internship Programme,’ aimed at providing practical training to young individuals in shrimp farming. The initiative, designed to boost youth employment and skill development, will support graduates with degrees in Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Zoology, according to ARY News.
During the inauguration, Maryam Nawaz highlighted that the program would equip interns with hands-on experience in shrimp farming. Participants will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 50,000 over a six-month period. The training will take place at the Fisheries Department’s shrimp farm in Muzaffargarh.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized the economic potential of shrimp farming, noting that cultivating shrimp on 100,000 acres could generate over $1 billion in foreign exchange. She encouraged young zoologists to apply for this unique opportunity, with applications available online through a designated job portal.
This announcement follows her recent launch of the ‘Kisan Card Programme’ in Hafizabad, aimed at providing small farmers with crucial financial support. The Kisan Card Programme offers loans of up to Rs 150,000 per crop season to purchase essential farming inputs. The initiative also includes free tractors for farmers with over 25 acres and access to agricultural equipment rentals at no profit.
These programs demonstrate the Punjab government’s commitment to supporting both young professionals and farmers, promoting sustainable growth in agriculture and aquaculture across the province.
