Govt sets target of 6.5m cotton bales

Minister vows to transform South Punjab into cotton valley

MULTAN:

During the third review meeting on cotton crop held at Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture, Punjab's Minister for Agriculture, Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, expressed confidence in achieving the target of 6.5 million bales of cotton from Punjab province this year.

Kirmani emphasised the importance of cotton cultivation in Punjab, highlighting the government's commitment to restoring cotton production in the region under the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

He outlined plans to transform south Punjab into a prominent cotton valley once again, emphasising the critical role of cotton in supporting the country's economy.

Kirmani highlighted the utilization of all available resources to achieve the cotton cultivation and production targets, with various projects initiated to bring about a green revolution in the province.

He ensured the availability of quality agricultural inputs in the market at fixed prices and directed the Agriculture Extension and Pest Warning staff to schedule monthly activities for efficient management.

Additionally, Punjab Agriculture Secretary Iftikhar Ali Sahoo instructed the regular conduct of Divisional and District Advisory Committees meetings.

Kirmani stressed the importance of implementing technical advisories issued by the Agriculture department and warned against any negligence in guiding farmers.

He emphasised the digital monitoring of field staff activities in cotton areas and urged field formations to enhance their professional skills in guiding farmers.

Measures to increase the breeding capacity of beneficial insects and delay chemical spray on cotton were also advised.

The field staff was directed to raise awareness among farmers about the implementation of Integrated Pest Management practices. Provincial assembly members Rana Muhammad Salim, Chaudhry Ziaul Rehman, Chaudhry Osama Fazal, Osama Leghari, and Zahid Akram participated in the meeting.

Published in The Express Tribune May 3^rd, 2024.