MULTAN: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Syed Fakhar Imam, said that country’s research institutions would be upgraded with cooperation of China under the second phase of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), in order to enhance production of various crops.
The minister expressed these remarks during a media talk after prize distribution ceremony at a private college here.
“Top researchers from China would visit Pakistan and work with local experts at different institutes”, said Fakhar and hoped that it would surely help improve seed quality which ultimately led to handsome production. The best seed quality can contribute 15 per cent more production, he stated.
Fakhar Imam also remarked that the country would also focus on organic farming as it was also becoming popular across the globe due to its nutritious and healthy value. The government was doing legislation to offer facilities for promotion of green food.
Fakhar also observed that South Punjab agriculture was playing important role in strengthening country’s economy adding he said there was an increase in production of major crops including wheat, maize, sugarcane and rice.
The increase in production was also improving living standard of farmers, said Fakhar. Country witnessed record production of 27.48 tonnes of wheat. Similarly, the government was also importing wheat in order to ensure ample stock in the country to plug chances of hoarding and keep prices stable.
He said that efforts were underway to enhance cotton production. The country is introducing track & trace system to monitor seed quality.
Fakhar hinted that floriculture will also be promoted to enhance flowers export. He quoted example of Holand and stated that it (Holand) was earning 25 billion dollars from export of flowers. – Agencies
