Pakistan’s agriculture sector is getting a major digital boost with the Zarkhez-e-Asaan Digital Zarai Qarza, a government-supported initiative aimed at providing easy, collateral-free financing to small farmers. With rising input costs and limited access to traditional bank loans, this scheme is proving to be a timely relief for thousands of farmers across the country.
The program offers a fully online, transparent, and controlled financing system, allowing farmers to purchase seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and diesel through approved digital channels. In 2026, the scheme continues to expand, making digital agriculture financing more accessible than ever.
What Is Zarkhez-e-Asaan Digital Zarai Qarza?
The Zarkhez-e-Asaan Digital Zarai Qarza is a short-term agricultural financing facility introduced with government backing and implemented through commercial banks and microfinance institutions.
Unlike traditional loans, this scheme ensures that funds are used strictly for agricultural purposes. The entire process — from application to disbursement and usage — is monitored digitally, reducing misuse and delays.
Key Objectives of the Scheme
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Support small and subsistence farmers
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Promote digital financial inclusion in rural areas
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Ensure transparent and purpose-based loan usage
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Improve crop productivity and farmer income
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Offer both conventional and Shariah-compliant financing options
Purpose and Structure of Financing
This scheme mainly focuses on production financing, helping farmers manage seasonal crop expenses without financial stress.
Allowed Use of Loan Amount
Funds can only be spent on essential agricultural inputs, including:
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Quality seeds
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Fertilizers
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Pesticides
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Diesel for farming operations
All payments are made through approved digital merchants, ensuring accountability and proper utilization.
Who Can Apply for Zarkhez-e-Asaan Digital Zarai Qarza?
The scheme is designed for small-scale farmers across Pakistan.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
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Pakistani citizen
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Age between 21 and 60 years
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Valid CNIC registered with NADRA
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Mobile SIM registered on applicant’s CNIC
Land Holding Limits (Province-Wise)
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Punjab: Up to 12.5 acres
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KPK: Up to 12.5 acres
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Sindh: Up to 16 acres
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Balochistan: Up to 32 acres
Both landowners and tenant farmers are eligible under this program.
Loan Amount and Financing Limits
The financing amount depends on the farmer’s status.
Loan Limits
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Landowners:
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Up to PKR 100,000 per acre
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Maximum loan up to PKR 1,000,000
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Tenant Farmers:
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Up to PKR 100,000 per acre
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Maximum loan up to PKR 500,000
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Cash Withdrawal Limits
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Landowners: Up to 25%
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Tenants: Up to 15%
Remaining funds must be used digitally at approved agri-merchants.
Loan Duration, Pricing, and Repayment
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Loan Tenure: Up to 12 months
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Pricing: Competitive market-based rates
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Repayment: Lump sum payment at maturity
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Early Repayment: Allowed
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Pre-payment Penalty: None
This structure keeps the loan affordable and flexible for small farmers.
How to Apply for Zarkhez-e-Asaan Digital Zarai Qarza Online
Applying for Zarkhez-e-Asaan Digital Zarai Qarza is simple and fully digital.
Step-by-Step Online Application Process
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Visit the bank’s official mobile app or digital portal
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Fill out the online loan application form
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Upload CNIC and required details
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Pay the Rs. 1,200 processing fee online
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Submit application for digital verification
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Receive approval notification
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Loan amount credited to wallet or bank account
✅ Only one application per farmer is allowed.
Digital Verification and Credit Evaluation
Banks assess applications using advanced digital checks, including:
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NADRA and PMD verification
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Sanctions and NACTA screening
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ECIB and private credit bureau checks
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Debt Burden Ratio (DBR) assessment
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KYC and agronomy-based credit scoring
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On-site verification if required
Loan Disbursement and Usage Rules
The loan is disbursed through:
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Digital wallet
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Asaan account
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CASA bank account
Funds can only be used at bank-approved agri-merchants, ensuring transparency and controlled spending.
Insurance Coverage for Farmers
To protect farmers and their families, the scheme includes mandatory insurance.
Group Life Insurance
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Covers outstanding loan amount
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Loan cleared in case of borrower’s death
Crop Insurance
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Mandatory for five major crops
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Provided under the Crop Loan Insurance Scheme (CLIS)
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Takaful-based coverage for Islamic financing
Additional Benefits for Farmers
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Free agri-advisory services through LIMS and partner providers
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Support in selling agricultural produce
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Storage assistance through accredited warehouses
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Risk coverage with 10% first-loss protection under government-supported schemes
Final Words
The Zarkhez-e-Asaan Digital Zarai Qarza is a major step toward modernizing agricultural financing in Pakistan. With easy online registration, controlled digital spending, insurance protection, and advisory support, this scheme empowers small farmers to grow confidently and sustainably in 2026.
FAQs
Q1: Is Zarkhez-e-Asaan Digital Zarai Qarza interest-free?
No, it is offered at competitive market rates, with Shariah-compliant options available.
Q2: Can tenant farmers apply?
Yes, both landowners and tenant farmers are eligible.
Q3: Is cash withdrawal allowed?
Yes, but only partially, depending on farmer category.
Q4: What is the processing fee?
The processing fee is Rs. 1,200.
Q5: Can I apply more than once?
No, only one application per farmer is allowed
