DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Adviser to the Chief Minister on Agriculture Main Muhammad Umar on Wednesday said resolving farmers’ problems remained the provincial government’s foremost priority, as he chaired an open forum (Khuli Kachehri) in Swat and directed officials to address growers’ complaints on an urgent basis.
The adviser chaired the Khuli Kachehri at the Agriculture Department office in Swat, which was attended by MPAs Fazal Hakim Khan, Sultan Room Khan and Akhtar Khan Advocate, senior agriculture officials, farmers, local elders and representatives of political and social organisations, said a handout issued here.
Participants highlighted a range of issues facing the agriculture sector in Swat, including development needs, farmers’ grievances and proposals for improving agricultural services. Mr Umar listened to the complaints and issued on-the-spot directions for the resolution of several matters, while other issues were referred to the relevant authorities for legal and administrative action.
He said the provincial government was pursuing farmer-friendly policies and taking measures to promote modern farming techniques, increase productivity and improve the welfare of growers.
“Farmers are the backbone of the economy and resolving their problems in a timely manner is one of the government’s highest priorities,” he said.
Mr Umar warned that corruption in the Agriculture Department would not be tolerated and urged farmers to report any demand for bribes through the e-Minister Portal or his office so that strict action could be taken.
He also directed officials to process applications submitted under various agricultural schemes in Swat on a priority basis and ensure the timely release of funds.
Later, the adviser visited the Agriculture Research Institute in Mingora, where he inaugurated a molecular plant laboratory. He said the facility would help modernise agricultural research and support the development of disease-resistant and high-yield crop varieties.
During the visit, he inspected research sections of the institute and received a briefing on ongoing projects, improved crop varieties and technical support being provided to farmers.
Mr Umar said modern research and technology were essential for increasing agricultural productivity and improving farmers’ incomes. He also directed the authorities to complete ongoing development projects at the institute within the prescribed timelines and standards.
Earlier, he chaired a meeting at the Swat office of the Agriculture Extension Department to review departmental performance, development projects and service delivery in the district.
