KARACHI:
Advanced technology and improved means of communication to transfer information have allowed the agricultural extension department to provide farmers with necessary information about harvesting, weather conditions, suitable crops for different terrains, etc. Therefore, the country can utilise its full potential and accommodate major, minor, and horticultural crops to boost agricultural productivity.
Some farmers have already adopted modern agronomic practices and employed farming machinery. Although government subsidies have motivated farmers to adopt new methods and techniques, progress remains slow as many farmers struggle to incorporate modern techniques.
In addition, proper storage, processing, and packaging facilities are largely absent and need to be introduced. Farmers have little knowledge about maintaining the quality of the output and are not aware of proper marketing protocols. Thus, they often sell their high-value products at low prices. Some measures to avoid wastage of surplus and ensure high output pricing include cleaning, grading, and packing commodities to increase their market value. The relevant government departments must work on facilitating farmers by informing them about the latest farming methods and techniques as well as educating them about storage and processing. This will ensure better use of surplus produce and ultimately add to the country’s GDP.
Seemab Kausar
Chichawatni
Published in The Express Tribune, August 25th, 2022.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
