New initiative to empower farmers

HBL Zarai Services Limited (HZSL) and Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) have signed an MoU to promote financial inclusion and provide modern agricultural services to farmers nationwide.

Under this collaboration, HAZL’s HBL Zarai Deras and ZTBL’s Zarai Baithaks will serve as joint hubs to offer agronomic advice, financial services, and mechanization support. ZTBL will also refer farmers to HBL Zarai for assistance, streamlining efforts to modernize agriculture.

HBL Zarai CEO Amer Aziz highlighted the importance of a farmer-focused financial model. The buy-back system ensures that farmers receive direct payments for their harvest, allowing them to reinvest in the next crop cycle. HBL Zarai also provides farm inputs, mechanization services, and agro-advisory, reducing post-harvest losses by up to 20% through efficient harvesting technology.

ZTBL President Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti shared that the bank has provided Rs. 37 billion in agricultural loans under the PM Kissan Package, including Rs. 12 billion for mechanization. ZTBL is also expanding outreach through initiatives like Zarai Baithak for expert consultations and a mobile van service to deliver financial and advisory support to remote areas.

This collaboration focuses on financial inclusion, digital transformation, and sustainable farming, ensuring small farmers have access to modern banking and agricultural solutions for long-term economic stability.