Looking to make big strides in the way farmers use information, Pakistan government announced it will distribute five million smartphones in October.
It would be farmers in Lahore province that would be beneficiaries of the tiny gadget next month. The government is hoping the initiative would revolutionize farming and increase agricultural productivity in the country.
Agriculture constitutes the largest sector of economy in Pakistan
The move follows a similar strategy used by countries such as India and Kenya that are working to ensure illiterate farmers can make the most of the smartphone boom.
The farmers will receive expert tips and timely insights, in addition to free alerts about the use of pesticides for their yields, said Punjab Information Technology Board chairman Dr Umar Saif.
Additionally, the smartphones will provide weather forecasts, market prices and disseminate information on receiving interest free loans.
The government is working on a list of farmers who can benefit out of the project.
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