The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), in collaboration with the Agriculture Extension Department, Jaffarabad, successfully organized a seminar on Post-Harvest Management of Rice, aimed at addressing critical challenges in the rice supply chain. Held in Sohbatpur on December 10, 2024, the seminar focused on educating farmers about modern post-harvest practices to improve rice quality, reduce losses, and enhance Pakistan’s rice exports.
Balochistan is important from rice production point of view. During 2022-23 the total rice production in Balochistan was 103160 tons. This was less than previous year of 2022-23 when the total production in Balochistan was 524750 tons. The lower production was the result of floods. The main production area is Jaffarabad that contributed 85510 tons.
The basmati cultivated in this area is well valued by the exporters due to limited pesticide residues and absence of aflatoxins. Rice is one of Pakistan’s most important export commodities, yet it faces numerous post-harvest challenges that can negatively impact quality, yield, and profitability. The seminar provided a platform for discussing solutions to these challenges, emphasizing best practices for managing post-harvest processes effectively.
Over 102 participants, including rice growers, farmers, and agriculture extension officers from Sohbatpur and surrounding districts, attended the event. The seminar commenced with a Tilawat, followed by welcoming remarks from an DG Agro and Food Division, TDAP.
Distinguished speakers from the Agriculture Extension Department, Jaffarabad, and TDAP led the technical sessions, covering several important topics: Minimizing Qualitative and Quantitative Losses in Post-Harvest Management, Key Practices for Effective Post-Harvest Handling, Pest Management Strategies for Stored Rice, Safe Harvesting and Handling Techniques, Managing Aflatoxins and Pesticide Residue in Rice.
These presentations provided practical insights and guidance, helping farmers address common post-harvest issues such as pest control, safe storage practices, and ensuring that the rice remains in prime condition for both local consumption and export markets.
The seminar concluded with remarks from the District Chairman and Assistant Commissioner, Sohbatpur , who commended TDAP and the Agriculture Extension Department for organizing such an impactful event.
