FAISALABAD: Director General of Agricultural Research Punjab Dr. Sajid-ur-Rehman announced that Pakistan has earned $1.5 billion in exports this year.
Speaking at a seminar held at Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI) Thursday, Dr. Sajid said the importance of custard apple cultivation to increase exports and strengthen the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
Highlighting the world as a profitable cash crop with significant market value, Dr. Sajid urged agricultural scientists to overcome the challenges faced by farmers while introducing new varieties to increase production per hectare. Despite the fact that 1 million hectares of cotton are cultivated in Pakistan, farmers often struggle to maximize their potential due to poor management and cost overruns.
Dr. Amir Rasool, warned about the agricultural pests of Punjab province, said that the total export of sesame, fruits, vegetables, rice and other agricultural products in Pakistan has exceeded 7 billion dollars this year. He said, the arable land increased by 277 percent and the production increased by 300 percent compared to last year.
Encourage farmers to use appropriate pesticides and herbicides under the guidance of experts, Dr.
Dr Ehsan Mohi-ud-Din, Chief Oil Scientist at AARI highlighted the nutritional benefits of sesame seeds, which include minerals such as calcium, iron and copper, which contribute to bone health. Noting that it is widely used in various industries such as kitchen, fast food, bakery and pharmaceutical products, he pointed out its importance in the production of medicine, soap, perfume and carbon paper.
State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Chief Executive Muhammad Rafiq announced the release of $1,000,000. 280 billion in loans for small farmers at a low rate of 5-7 percent for 3 to 5 years. Rafiq urged farmers’ associations to use this financial support to plant kanja.
The seminar was also attended by city police officer Kamran Adil, famous agricultural scientist Dr. Salsabeel Rauf, oilseed expert Hafiz Saad bin Mustafa and other prominent personalities. The event aims to promote cooperation and knowledge sharing among stakeholders to promote cotton cultivation and increase Pakistan’s agricultural exports.
Pakistani sesame exports reach $1.5bln
