The Punjab government has launched the “Lab on Wheels” initiative, introducing mobile soil and water testing laboratories to provide farmers with on-site scientific testing and advisory services as part of efforts to modernize agriculture through digital technology.
Under the project, farmers can request a mobile laboratory with a single phone call. Trained field teams will visit farms, collect soil and water samples, conduct on-site scientific analysis, and provide instant test reports along with recommendations on suitable crops and fertilizer application.
The mobile laboratories will offer a range of services, including:
- On-site testing of soil pH and electrical conductivity (EC).
- Analysis of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) levels.
- Instant digital test reports delivered via SMS and WhatsApp.
- Customized crop and fertilizer recommendations based on soil conditions.
- On-site advisory services from agricultural experts.
Speaking at the launch, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said accurate soil testing and balanced fertilizer use are vital for increasing agricultural productivity and achieving food self-sufficiency. She said the initiative is designed to shift Punjab’s farming sector from conventional practices to a modern, scientific, and technology-driven model while reducing production costs and increasing farmers’ income per acre.
To ensure transparency and efficient operations, the project will be monitored through a central control room, with all mobile laboratories equipped with GPS tracking, live camera streaming, and real-time dashboard monitoring. Farmers’ service requests will be processed digitally, while field staff attendance will also be managed through a dedicated mobile application.
The Punjab government has also set ambitious annual targets under the initiative, including collecting 20,000 soil samples, organizing 500 farmers’ field days, training 15,000 farmers, and developing a GPS-based digital soil map of Punjab using real-time cloud data.
Officials said the “Lab on Wheels” project is expected to improve soil health through balanced fertilizer use, reduce farming costs, and provide farmers with scientific guidance directly at their doorsteps.
