DNA
Lahore, Dec 6: Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi’s groundbreaking initiative unfolds as he addresses the decades-long plight of landless farmers in Cholistan. Acting on Chief Minister Naqvi’s directives, the protracted process of allotting land, stagnant for 45 years, has culminated in a few short months, with 344 thousand acres now allocated to 27 thousand farmers through a meticulously conducted transparent balloting.
The computerized balloting, officiated by Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi at his office, signifies a historic step towards empowering the farmers of Cholistan. Speaking at the balloting ceremony, Chief Minister Naqvi announced the allocation of 12 and a half acres of land per person on a lease for five years to 27 thousand farmers. This landmark decision brings justice to the impoverished farmers spanning three districts of South Punjab – Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar, and Bahawalpur, who have awaited their rightful claims for 45 years.
Expressing the significance of this occasion, Chief Minister Naqvi extended congratulations to the landless farmers of Bahawalpur Division and Cholistan for securing land through the balloting. He pledged to personally hand over allotment papers to the successful farmers during his upcoming visit to Cholistan.
Chief Minister Naqvi emphasized the transparency and rigorous scrutiny involved in the land allotment process, with Session Judges, government officials, and various stakeholders playing integral roles. Highlighting the prolonged delay since 1978 in the land allotment process for Cholistan residents, Chief Minister Naqvi envisioned this initiative providing employment opportunities to thousands of Cholistan families.
Assured of transforming the Cholistan landscape, Chief Minister Naqvi anticipated increased cultivation, greener surroundings, and improved access to canal water. He revealed that the allotment rates are reasonable, enabling farmers to cultivate the land in the upcoming crop season.
During the briefing, it was disclosed that 41,841 applicants underwent rigorous screening, with 27 thousand individuals in Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, and Bahawalpur securing 12 and a half acres of land each on a five-year lease. The computerized draw was conducted by Provincial Ministers Amir Mir and Azfar Ali Nasir, Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, Senior Member Board of Revenue Nabil Javed, and other dignitaries, marking a momentous occasion for the Cholistan region. Deputy Commissioner Bahawalpur, through Video link, also actively participated in the draw ceremony.
