Punjab Launches Free Community Vegetable Scheme to Support Families Facing Rising Food Costs

Lahore: The Punjab government has introduced a new community-based initiative aimed at helping families cope with rising food prices by providing free seasonal vegetables through locally grown produce.

The program, titled “Sasti Nahi Muft Sabzi, Sanjhi Sabzi” (Free, Not Cheap Vegetables, Shared Vegetables), focuses on growing vegetables on government-owned land and distributing the harvest to residents without charge.

How the Initiative Works

Under the scheme, seasonal vegetables are being cultivated on government-owned urban buildings as well as rural land in Muzaffargarh district.

According to officials, vegetables are currently being grown on 140 plots covering a total area of 139 kanals. The harvested produce is distributed free of cost to local residents based on their household needs.

Community Participation

The initiative was first launched in a village within the Christian community of Muzaffargarh.

Government officials say local residents have actively participated in the project by growing additional vegetables and sharing the harvest with other families in the community, creating a cooperative model of food support.

Government Initiative

The program was launched under the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif as part of broader efforts to provide relief to households affected by increasing living expenses.

Plans for Province-Wide Expansion

Following the initial implementation in Muzaffargarh, the Punjab government has directed deputy commissioners across the province to introduce similar “Sasti Nahi Muft Sabzi, Sanjhi Sabzi” projects in their respective districts.

Officials say the initiative aims to make productive use of unused government land while encouraging community participation in local food production. The government hopes the model will strengthen food support efforts and provide additional relief to families facing the impact of rising household expenses.