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LAHORE, Dec 15 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has formally inaugurated technology-based shrimp farming, aquaculture, and an integrated value chain in the province, marking a major step towards the development of Punjab’s blue economy.
The project comes after the successful completion of a pilot research initiative covering 100 acres of land, which demonstrated the viability of scientific and modern aquaculture techniques in the region.
Chairing a meeting here on Monday, the chief minister described the initiative as a significant milestone for the province, emphasizing that it will not only increase seafood production but also generate employment opportunities, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance the income of local farmers. She outlined that the project includes the establishment of hatcheries, aqua malls, processing plants, cold storage facilities, and a modern transport chain to ensure efficient post-harvest management and value addition.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that by March 2026, shrimp estates covering 5,300 acres will be launched in Muzaffargarh and Sargodha, and a feasibility study for an additional 2,600 acres is underway to extend the project to more farmers in the province. She highlighted that the initiative has been developed using global research and advanced aquaculture technologies, with technical support and expertise from professionals in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Ecuador, Australia, and Mexico.
The chief minister added that machinery has been installed on-site and teams are working round-the-clock to ensure smooth implementation. She stressed that the project represents a long-term vision for sustainable aquaculture in Punjab, combining innovation, research, and modern practices to make the province a hub of technological aquaculture and blue economy development.
The meeting was briefed that the project will also focus on skill development, training of local workforce, and creation of an integrated supply and marketing chain to ensure economic sustainability for farmers and stakeholders involved in the aquaculture sector.