SARGODHA: A seminar aimed at redirecting farmers’ focus towards the livestock sector underscored the Punjab government’s renewed push for modernization, value addition and export-oriented growth in animal husbandry,here on Saturday. Addressing the seminar,Parliamentary Secretary to the Chief Minister Punjab Sardar Asim Sher Maken said that for the first time in the province,the livestock budget had been increased from Rs.5 billion to Rs.40 billion to develop the sector on modern lines. He said the government was providing interest-free loans to small farmers and ranchers along with dairy milking machines to enhance productivity and strengthen the rural economy. He added that special emphasis was being placed on value addition,dairy exports and modern processing systems to further strengthen the national economy. Briefing the participants,Director General (Extension) Dr.Syed Nadeem Badar said work was underway on a plan to expand livestock capacity from 300,000 to 600,000 animals. He urged farmers to submit maximum applications under government schemes to benefit from available facilities. He said several new initiatives would be introduced in the upcoming fiscal year aimed at directly benefiting farmers. Additional Secretary (Technical) Sheikh Usman Tahir said unprecedented funds were being allocated for the livestock sector adding that the government was taking serious steps to align the sector with modern requirements. Director General Production Dr.Kanwar Naeem said a comprehensive strategy was being implemented for modern dairy farming,breed improvement,meat and milk processing. DNA
