Use of new technologies to help reduce agri cost

Dr Iqrar says genetically modified crops to ensure food security in the country

FAISALABAD: University of Agriculture Faisalabad Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan has said the adoption of precision agriculture and others modern technologies were necessary to decrease the cost of production in agricultural sector to compete with the rest of world.

The vice chancellor expressed these views during at a meeting with delegation comprising experts from eight countries. The delegation was headed by State Bank of Pakistan, Faisalabad Chief Manager Waqas Kashif. “With organic food we cannot feed the ever-growing population of 200 million people. Therefore, genetically modified crops are vital to ensure food security in the county,” the VC said while giving a briefing about agriculture sector in Pakistan.

Stressing the need for promoting water-efficient crops, he expressed concern that 4,000 litres of water was required to produce one kilogramme of rice. He said in the neighbouring countries heavy subsidy and support price was being given in the agriculture sector. “Our farmers are facing different issues including the low productivity, profitability and markets issues.”

Talking about the Pakistan Day, he said the country was achieved after the great sacrifices. “The history of the subcontinent was changed with the Pakistan Resolution on March 23, 1940. Now it is our duty to move the country towards progress. We will make all possible effort for the solidarity and progress of the Pakistan,” Dr Iqrar said.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 24^th, 2017.