Sahiwal

Sahiwal is a city and the capital of Sahiwal District in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It lies in central Punjab and serves as an administrative, commercial, and transport hub for the district, which is part of the Sahiwal Division. The surrounding area is predominantly agricultural, with irrigation supporting farming that forms a major part of the local economy.

Historically, the area has seen various rulers and trade routes that shaped its development. During British rule, the town was known as Montgomery, named after General Sir Robert Montgomery. In 1966, it was renamed Sahiwal to reflect local heritage. The district contains a number of towns and rural communities linked by road and rail to larger cities in Punjab.

Economy and land use in Sahiwal are centered on agriculture and related activities. Crops commonly grown in the district include cotton, rice, wheat, and sugarcane, with pulses and vegetables contributing to local production. Livestock plays a substantial role, with dairy and meat production supporting both rural livelihoods and regional markets. The area is especially associated with the Sahiwal cattle breed, a prominent indicine cattle line that is valued for dairy production, heat tolerance, and adaptability to hot climates.

Sahiwal cattle, originating from the region, are medium to large dairy cattle known for relatively high milk yields compared with other tropical breeds. Typical production ranges depend on management, but animals in the breed are widely used in Pakistan and neighboring countries for milk and breeding programs, and they are common in crossbreeding initiatives aimed at improving dairy capabilities in warm climates.