Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif directs all districts to replicate the community-based initiative after its successful launch in Muzaffargarh.
The Punjab government has launched a new community welfare initiative titled “Sasti Nahi Muft Sabzi, Sanjhi Sabzi” (Free, Not Cheap Vegetables – Shared Vegetables) to provide free seasonal vegetables to families struggling with rising living costs.
The project has been introduced on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, with Muzaffargarh becoming the first district to implement the scheme.
The initiative encourages community participation in vegetable cultivation while utilizing government-owned land and public spaces to support vulnerable households.
Free Vegetables Through Community Farming
Under the program, seasonal vegetables are being cultivated on government-owned urban buildings as well as public land in rural areas.
The harvested vegetables are distributed free of charge to local residents according to their household needs.
Officials said the project is designed to strengthen food security, reduce the financial burden on low-income families, and encourage collective community support.
Cultivation Underway on 140 Plots
According to district authorities, vegetables are currently being grown on 140 plots covering a combined area of 139 kanals.
Residents have already begun receiving fresh seasonal vegetables without cost, with officials describing the response from local communities as highly encouraging.
The initiative also promotes the productive use of available public land while encouraging sustainable urban and rural agriculture.
Project Began in Christian Community
The “Sasti Nahi Muft Sabzi, Sanjhi Sabzi” project was first launched in a Christian community village in Muzaffargarh, where residents voluntarily cultivated vegetables not only for their own families but also to support others in the community.
Officials said the spirit of cooperation shown by local residents demonstrated how community-driven agriculture can help improve food access and strengthen social solidarity.
Maryam Nawaz Orders Province-Wide Expansion
Following the project’s initial success, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed Deputy Commissioners across Punjab to implement similar community vegetable farming initiatives in their respective districts.
The chief minister described the project as a model welfare initiative that combines community participation, food security, and social responsibility.
Provincial officials believe expanding the program across Punjab will help more families cope with rising food prices while promoting self-reliance and community engagement.
The Punjab government says it will continue introducing innovative public welfare schemes aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens and supporting vulnerable communities across the province.
