minister holds talks on rural development and livestock enhancements with US Consul General
Published on: June 8, 2024.
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Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Punjab Ashiq Hussain Kirmani recently met with American Consul General Kristin K Hawkins in Lahore to discuss the promotion of mutual cooperation in the agriculture and livestock sectors. The meeting was attended by Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo and Vice Chancellor Agriculture University Faisalabad Dr Iqrar Ahmed Khan.
During the meeting, the US Consul General expressed the readiness of American private companies to support the introduction of modern technology in Punjab’s agricultural sector and the production of quality seeds. She also mentioned that scientists would soon visit the Agriculture Department Punjab.
Minister Kirmani expressed the high value placed on American financial aid and assistance in Punjab’s agricultural projects under the USAID program. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Punjab government is actively focusing on the development of the agriculture sector through various initiatives.
One of these initiatives is the “Transforming Punjab Agriculture Program,” which is being implemented with a budget of Rs 400 billion. This program aims to provide interest-free loans of Rs 300 billion to farmers over a two-year period. Additionally, steps are being taken to promote agricultural machinery and convert farmers’ electric tubewells to solar energy.
Minister Kirmani also emphasized the need for assistance from the California State to establish a new citrus research and development center, as well as revive orchards and nurseries in Punjab.
He highlighted that the livestock sector plays a significant role in Punjab’s agriculture, accounting for 60% of the sector. Chief Minister Punjab has approved several programs for the development of the livestock sector, with a focus on increasing meat exports, milk production, and bread improvement.
Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo reiterated that agriculture is the government’s top priority. This year, Punjab has experienced a remarkable increase in wheat and rice production per acre.
Sahoo stressed the importance of regular communication and dialogue between the Punjab government and the California State regarding the supply of large machinery, seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.
Overall, the meeting between Minister Kirmani and Consul General Hawkins signifies a commitment to promoting cooperation and development in Punjab’s agriculture and livestock sectors. With the support of American private companies and technological advancements, Punjab’s agriculture sector is poised for growth and improvement.
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