ADB Approves $381 Million Projects to Boost Agriculture, Education, and Health in Punjab

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved three major projects worth $381 million to strengthen agriculture, education, and healthcare sectors in Punjab, Pakistan, aiming to drive sustainable development in the province.

Under the plan, $120 million in loans and $4 million in grants will be allocated to promote modern and environmentally sustainable agricultural machinery. The initiative is expected to benefit 220,000 rural families, providing small farmers with advanced equipment and enhancing the skills of 15,000 women. Punjab, being the hub of Pakistan’s food production, contributes 75% of wheat, 69% of rice, and 91% of maize to the country. The ADB emphasized that the project will reduce losses caused by outdated equipment and minimize pollution from crop residue burning.

In the education sector, $107 million (including $100 million loan and $7 million grant) will be invested to modernize secondary-level STEM education.

For healthcare, ADB approved $150 million in loans to enhance nursing education and develop a strong workforce. The project will increase the number of qualified nurses in Punjab through new curricula, faculty training, and digital HR systems.

Additionally, three Centers of Excellence will be established in Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, featuring simulation laboratories, digital learning facilities, and gender-inclusive provisions to provide advanced training for healthcare professionals.

These projects aim to transform Punjab’s agricultural productivity, education quality, and healthcare capacity, laying a foundation for long-term economic growth and social development.