Cultivating the Future: Internship Jobs in Punjab’s Citrus Sector
Agriculture economy in Pakistan has been one of the most important drivers of economic development with an estimated 37 percent of employees working in the sector (Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, 2024).
In this industry, citrus fruit can be singled out, and Punjab produces more than 80 percent of national citrus production, making it the citrus bowl of Pakistan. To continue to reinforce this legacy, the Revival of Citrus Sector in Punjab Project is also trying to recruit young and eager individuals to its Horticulture Intern at Sargodha and Toba Tek Singh in the year 2025.
Are you hoping you would work in the field of horticulture, agriculture, or plant science? Read this blog post to get all the job details, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and proper career development facts.
Position Overview
Horticultural internship is a government internship program in the Revival of Citrus Sector Programme manned by the Agriculture Department, Punjab. The purpose of this project is to update and improve citrus cultivation techniques and enhance the general productive and sustainable outcomes.
Locations:
- Sargodha, Punjab
- Toba Tek Singh, Punjab
No. of Positions:
- 19 Total (12 Sargodha, 7 Toba Tek Singh)
Tenure:
- Year-long (12 months, non-extendable, per project needs)
Qualification and Eligibility Requirements
Core Criteria
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or equivalent (recognized by HEC).
- “Others” qualification accepted as per equivalence rules.
- Age Limit: Maximum 28 years.
- Skills:
- Strong communication (verbal & written)
- Interpersonal and field skills
- Basic computer literacy
- Ability to work in diverse teams
- Domicile: Punjab residents only
Required Documents
- Updated CV/Resume
- Copies of educational certificates/transcripts
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- Valid CNIC & Domicile Certificate
About The Agriculture Department & Project
Agriculture Department, Punjab
The Agriculture department is the chief governmental organization dealing with the growth, control and modernization of the huge agricultural base of Punjab. The contributions of provinces to the GDP are above PKR 2.3 trillion (2024), so its operations have a direct influence on millions of lives and the food security level.
The Citrus Revival Project
This initiative seeks to:
- Improve citrus yield and disease resistance via scientific practices
- Upskill youth through practical training
- Implement sustainable agriculture models
- Boost Pakistan’s citrus export quality (30% of national fruit exports come from citrus)
Salary Structure and Internship Compensation
| Level | Monthly Pay (PKR) | Annual Pay (PKR) | Bonus/Increments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horticulture Intern | 60,000 | 720,000 | Not specified/None |
| Entry-level Officer | 70,000 – 100,000 | 840,000–1,200,000 | Performance bonuses |
| Junior Agronomist | 110,000 – 160,000 | 1,320,000–1,920,000 | Yearly review possible |
Note: Interns are appointed for up to twelve months, with stipend locked at 60,000 PKR/month.
Benefits, Schedule, and Additional Internship Information
| Benefit / Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Work Schedule | Full-time, standard office/farm hours (Mon-Sat* as per field needs) |
| Leave Entitlement | As per Punjab Government rules |
| Professional Development | Field training, workshops, mentoring by senior scientists |
| Career Networking | Interaction with government/development agencies |
| Work Environment | Rotational – office, field, and laboratory exposure |
| Certificate of Completion | Provided after successful tenure |
| Performance Review | Monthly assessment by project team |
Main Job Responsibilities
- Assist field teams in citrus orchard evaluations and farmer outreach
- Record and analyze crop health data, report on pest/disease incidence
- Participate in information campaigns and training workshops for growers
- Support project leaders in documenting impact metrics and preparing reports
- Facilitate technology adoption (e.g., drip irrigation, disease diagnostics)
- Maintain project records and data entry
Required Skills/Competencies
- Strong analytical and observational skills
- Excellent teamwork and adaptability
- Effective communication and documentation abilities
- Basic digital literacy (MS Office, data logging)
Key Internship Benefits
- Hands-on practical experience in a flagship government project
- Professional networking in Punjab’s public and private agriculture sectors
- Enhancement of employability in the horticulture and agriculture industry
- Monthly stipend of PKR 60,000 (competitive for fresh graduates)
- Certificate serves as a strong credential for future jobs or post-grad studies
Industry Outlook: Punjab Horticulture & Career Pathways
- Punjab produces 2.5+ million tons of citrus fruits annually (Ministry of National Food Security, 2023)
- Export market potential is rising, with increases in value-added citrus products
- Demand for skilled agronomists, field officers, and researchers is growing – the skills from this internship serve as a launchpad for roles such as:
- Agriculture Officer (Govt/Private sector)
- Field Researcher
- Citrus Production Manager
- Graduate Trainee (Agribusinesses, NGOs)
- Postgraduate Studies (Scholarships/Research)
How to Apply for the Horticulture Intern Position
Official Application Instructions
- Obtain Application Form: Use the prescribed application form available from the Agriculture Department, Punjab’s official site, or download here.
- Prepare Documentation: Attach all required documents as listed above.
- Submission: Send completed applications by registered post ONLY to the Director General Agriculture (Extension), Punjab, Lahore. Clearly mention the post and project name on the envelope.
- Deadline: Applications close July 28, 2025. Late/incomplete submissions will not be considered.
- Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
- Selection: Merit-based selection per Punjab Government policy. No TA/DA for interview participation.
Direct Link to Application Portal:
Apply for Horticulture Intern – Citrus Revival Project
Summary: Why Apply?
The internship is a unique exposure that Punjab agri-graduates and young professionals can receive by being part of a government-supported, large-scale project, and directly connected to the future of fruit industry in Pakistan. The Horticulture Internships with the Citrus Revival Project have the potential to become a valuable stepping-stone to the career with a clear and fair compensation system, transparent requirements and impressive possibility of growth.
Next Steps for Interested Candidates
- Download and fill the official application form
- Collect and attach all education and ID documents
- Submit via registered post before the July 28, 2025, deadline
- Prepare for potential interviews by reviewing basic citrus and field knowledge
- Check Agriculture Department Punjab Jobs Page for updates
Frequently Asked Questions
What roles are available for horticulture interns?
Internships include roles in field research, post-harvest management, and lab testing.
Who can apply for the citrus sector internship?
Candidates with a degree or diploma in horticulture, agriculture, or related field are eligible.
Is this internship paid or unpaid?
Internships under this project are paid, with monthly stipends and travel allowances.
Where will the internship take place?
Interns will work at Citrus Research Institutes in Sargodha and Toba Tek Singh.
How do I apply for the citrus sector internship?
Download application from agripunjab.gov.pk, then submit hard copy to Secretary Agriculture, Lahore.
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