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Cotton-sowing
in Balochistan achieves 97% target
ISLAMABAD-The Cotton sowing gained momentum in Balochistan
province as it was sown over an area of 40,162 hectares thus
achieving 97 % of the sowing target during 2001-2002.
Federal Minister for Food and Agriculture Khair Muhammad Junejo
said on August 31, 2001 that federal and provincial governments
had undertaken efforts to sow cotton in paddy growing areas of
Pat Feeder (Dera Murad Jamali).
He said some incentives including distribution of 50 % free of
cost seed amongst the growers and technical assistance was
provided in the area to educate the farmers to grow cotton
because it consumes lesser water as compared to rice.
Chief Executive during his visit to Pat Fedder had also
announced cotton growing package which ensured provision of free
of cost cotton seed, agriculture credit facilities and technical
know how for cotton growers. Cotton Commissioner Dr Qadir Bux
Baloch further said that he had ecently undertaken a visit of
Agriculture Development Institute, Dera Allahyar at Nasirabad
Division in Balochistan. The growers appreciated the efforts
made by the Federal government for cotton cultivation.
The farmers acknowledged the efforts of the government with
regard to facilities of seed and cotton production technology
due to which a sizeable area could be converted from Rice to
Cotton cultivation, he added.
However, he said, the farmers expressed concern over the
attitude of irrigation department in the province as management
of water distribution was very poor. They were also not happy
over the role of ADBP with regard to provision of loans.
Dr Baloch said two ginning factories which are planning to start
work in the current cotton season have complained that WAPDA and
PTCL are not helping them in provision of electric supply and
telephone connection. However, he said, these problems were
resolved when Federal Minister for Food and Agriculture Khair
Muhammad Junejo interfered and took up the matter with the
authorities of both departments.
Cotton Commissioner while expressing satisfaction over the crop
condition said PCCC team in Balochistan is assisting Agriculture
Extension activities and coordinator of Cotton Development
Programme. The Office Incharge PCCC are in close contact with
farmers and other stakeholders.
August 31 |
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