Punjab launches ‘Lab On Wheels’ for mobile soil testing of farmers’ fields
Punjab launches ‘Lab on Wheels’ for farmers
The Punjab government has officially launched Lab on Wheels, introducing Punjab mobile soil testing labs to improve farming across the province.
The new project allows farmers to request a mobile laboratory with just one phone call. Instead of travelling to testing centres, farmers can now have soil and water samples collected and tested at their own farms.
Officials say the initiative is part of the government’s plan to modernize agriculture by using scientific methods and digital technology to increase crop production and improve farmers’ incomes.
How the service works
Under the Lab on Wheels programme, trained teams will visit farms, collect soil and water samples, and perform scientific tests on-site.
The Punjab mobile soil testing labs will examine important soil indicators, including pH levels, electrical conductivity (EC), and nutrient content such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK).
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Once the testing is complete, farmers will immediately receive digital reports through SMS and WhatsApp. The reports will also include recommendations about the best crops to grow and the correct amount of fertilizer to use based on the condition of the land.
Agricultural experts travelling with the laboratories will guide farmers on improving productivity while reducing unnecessary farming expenses.
Maryam Nawaz highlights importance of scientific farming
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said that accurate soil testing and balanced fertilizer use are essential for the future of agriculture.
She explained that Lab on Wheels is designed to replace traditional farming practices with a modern scientific system that helps growers make informed decisions.
According to her, better soil management will reduce production costs, improve crop quality, and increase profits for farmers across Punjab.
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Digital monitoring ensures transparency
Officials said every vehicle operating under the Punjab mobile soil testing labs project will be connected to a central monitoring system.
Each laboratory will be tracked through GPS technology, while live camera streaming and digital dashboards will allow authorities to monitor field operations in real time.
Farmers’ requests will be managed through an online system, and field staff attendance will also be recorded through a dedicated mobile application to ensure transparency and accountability.
Annual targets announced
The Punjab government has also announced ambitious goals for the project.
Authorities aim to collect 20,000 soil samples every year, organize 500 farmers’ field days, and train 15,000 farmers in modern agricultural techniques.
Officials also plan to develop a GPS-based digital soil map of Punjab using real-time cloud data collected through Lab on Wheels and the Punjab mobile soil testing labs network.
The government believes this information will help improve future agricultural planning and support long-term food security.
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Farmers expected to benefit
Officials believe the project will encourage balanced fertilizer use, improve soil health, and reduce unnecessary agricultural expenses.
By bringing Punjab mobile soil testing labs directly to villages, farmers will save both time and money while receiving professional guidance without travelling long distances.
The government hopes the programme will improve crop yields, strengthen Punjab’s agriculture, and make scientific farming more accessible for growers of all sizes.
