Punjab’s first-ever veterinary internship program has been launched with a budget of Rs. 600 million to support 1,000 veterinary graduates and paraveterinary professionals across all 36 districts. Announced on August 18, 2025, the scheme combines financial assistance with hands-on field training to boost livestock and dairy development.
Who Can Apply and How
Under the Punjab internship program, graduates holding a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) will receive Rs. 60,000 per month, while Livestock Assistants and paravets with a two-year LAD diploma will be entitled to Rs. 40,000 per month.
Applications are being accepted through the official Punjab job portal: www.jobs.punjab.gov.pk. Candidates can apply online from within their districts, making the process accessible and transparent.
To ensure inclusivity, special quotas have been reserved for Veterinary Assistants, AI Technicians, and Lab Assistants, covering every district of Punjab.
Why the Program Matters
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the initiative is designed not only to equip youth with professional skills but also to bring animal healthcare services directly to farmers.
“This program will promote and develop livestock in Punjab, strengthen the dairy sector, and create a skilled workforce,” she stated.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that improving livestock management could directly enhance milk and meat production, supporting Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves through export potential.
“We want to take full advantage of Punjab’s livestock potential and make the province a hub of livestock and dairy development. We stand with farmers today and will continue to support them in the future,” she added.
Key Features of the Internship
- Budget: Rs. 600 million
- Beneficiaries: 1,000 veterinary graduates and paravets
- Monthly Stipend: Rs. 60,000 (DVM graduates), Rs. 40,000 (paravets/LAD diploma holders)
- Application Portal: www.jobs.punjab.gov.pk
- Coverage: All 36 districts of Punjab
- Quotas: Veterinary Assistants, AI Technicians, Lab Assistants
This is the first comprehensive livestock internship Punjab has seen, providing both financial relief and field-based experience for young professionals.
Economic and Social Impact
The livestock sector contributes significantly to Punjab’s rural economy, with millions of households depending on dairy and meat production. According to government officials, the internship program will strengthen service delivery for farmers while creating a pipeline of trained professionals ready to serve in both public and private sectors.
By modernizing animal healthcare practices, the scheme is expected to:
- Improve livestock productivity.
- Enhance food security.
- Support sustainable rural incomes.
- Reduce farmer reliance on informal or unqualified veterinary services.
Expert Views
Agriculture and veterinary experts have welcomed the initiative, calling it a timely intervention for both youth employment and livestock development. They note that structured internships with financial backing can prevent brain drain in the veterinary profession and ensure graduates remain in the field.
What’s Next
Applications are already open, and placements will be distributed across all districts to ensure rural outreach. The government has signaled plans to expand the scheme if successful.
For veterinary students and young professionals, this is a rare opportunity to gain practical experience while earning a competitive stipend. For farmers, it promises better access to animal treatment and advisory services at their doorstep.
