DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Adviser to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister on Agriculture Mian Muhammad Umar on Thursday chaired an open court in Charsadda to hear farmers’ grievances and announced several initiatives aimed at strengthening agriculture and horticulture in the district.
The open court was attended by Provincial Minister for Mines Arif Ahmadzai, Provincial Minister for Public Health Engineering Fazal Shakoor Khan, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Prisons Iftikharullah Jan, MPA Arshad Khan Umarzai, Deputy Commissioner Charsadda Dr Azmat Wazir, senior officials of the Agriculture Department and a large number of farmers.
Farmers highlighted issues related to agriculture, irrigation, subsidies and other challenges faced by the farming community. The adviser heard their concerns and directed the relevant authorities to take measures for their timely resolution.
Mr Umar announced the establishment of a soil testing laboratory in Charsadda and said a cold storage facility would also be set up to support fruit production and horticulture in the district.
He said Rs500 million had been allocated for the establishment of farm service centres, with practical work on the project expected to begin soon. He added that significant funds had also been earmarked for constructing flood protection walls to safeguard agricultural land from flood damage.
The adviser said the government would improve the irrigation system through the construction of watercourses and channels, while steps were being taken to prevent the unchecked conversion of agricultural land into housing societies.
He also announced subsidies for farmers affected by the supply of poor-quality seeds and said drip and sprinkler irrigation systems would be introduced to promote efficient water use and increase agricultural productivity.
Later, Mr Umar attended the first-ever Mango Festival in Charsadda as chief guest, where different varieties of mangoes were displayed for visitors.
Various companies established stalls showcasing agricultural products, quality seeds, fertilisers and pesticides, while farmers were provided information about modern farming technologies and improved cultivation methods.
The adviser visited different stalls, reviewed mango varieties and agricultural products, and interacted with representatives of relevant organisations.
Addressing the festival, Mr Umar said the provincial government was taking practical measures to develop the agriculture sector, promote horticulture and increase farmers’ incomes.
He said the adoption of modern cultivation techniques, value addition and improved marketing of mangoes and other fruits would enhance farmers’ economic conditions and contribute to strengthening the province’s agricultural economy.
He added that agricultural festivals and exhibitions helped create stronger links between farmers, experts and the private sector, besides facilitating the transfer of modern research and technology for sustainable agricultural development.
