Wednesday, May 7, 2008, Rabi-ul-Sani 30, 1429    

Ahmad Ali for promoting mechanized farming in country

Lahore—Punjab Minister for Agriculture Ahmad Ali Aulakh Tuesday stressed to promote mechanization farming for achieving breakthrough in the production of major crops in the province. He was presiding over a meeting to finalize strategy for enhancing production of cotton and rice in the province during 2008-09 here. The meeting was attended by Javed Iqbal Awan, Secretary Agriculture Punjab, Dr. Anjum Ali, Director General Agriculture (Ext.& A.R) Punjab, Dr Ejaz Pervaiz, Director General ( Pest Warning), Dr. Muhammad Yasin, Director General (Field), Rafiq Akhtar, Director Agricultural Information, Executive District Officers and District Officers of Agriculture Extension from Punjab.
Briefing the minister, Secretary Agriculture said that a special derive to check adulteration in pesticides will be launched during this season. He said that no department functionary will be spared in case of complaints about sale of adulterated and substandard pesticides. Dr. Anjum told the minister about the production strategy for cotton and rice crops during 2008-09 and for next wheat crop. He told that 15 varieties of cotton and 11 varieties of rice have been recommended for cultivation during this season which are high yielding and having some resistance against pests and diseases.
Director Agri Information highlighted media campaign to supplement extension efforts to educate growers about latest production technologies for cotton and rice crops.
The minister reiterated that both cotton and rice crops are crucially important to meet food requirements of burgeoning population as well as to earn foreign exchange for the country. He urged to make all efforts for enhancing cotton and rice production at least 25% during 2008-09. He directed the Extension Wing of Agriculture department, Punjab to remain in the field to guide and assist farmers for achieving production target of 11 million bales of cotton and 3.2 million tons of rice in 2008-09.—APP