Aman Salamti Group

The Aman Salamti Group consists of four smallholder farmers from the Kasur area, aged between 24 and 56. Together, their households support 13 dependents, including eight children. Five of these children are currently in education, while the remaining three are either infants or developing basic skills.

Allah Ditta, 56, is one of the members of the group. He is married with two children who are looking for jobs. His wife oversees domestic responsibilities. Allah Ditta cultivates about five acres, growing wheat during the winter season and rice in summer. He estimates his annual farming profit at roughly £1,220. He also produces various vegetables for household consumption.

The Aman Salamti Group continues using traditional agricultural methods. Maize seeds are sown manually, a physically demanding and time-intensive process that often results in uneven spacing and irregular depth, reducing germination rates and overall yields. The labour-intensive nature of hand planting also delays field operations during critical planting windows. Occasionally, the farmers must rent modern planting equipment, but rental fees diminish their profit margins.

The group already owns a tractor and now seeks to modernise their cultivation practices. They have applied for a loan to purchase a maize planter. This equipment will ensure uniform seed placement at optimal depth and spacing, significantly improving germination and stand establishment. The maize planter will also accelerate planting operations, allowing the group to complete seeding during ideal weather conditions. Group members anticipate this equipment will enhance efficiency and boost overall crop productivity. They plan to settle the loan through three equal instalments made every six months.