Karachi web Desk: Sindh’s agricultural sector has achieved a significant milestone with the development of 22 new crop varieties that promise higher yields while requiring less water. This breakthrough was announced during a crucial meeting of the Provincial Seed Council, chaired by Sindh’s Minister of Agriculture, Sardar Muhammad Bux Khan Mahar.
Key Developments in Agriculture
The meeting, attended by Secretary of Agriculture Sohail Ahmed Qureshi, Director General of Research Mazhar Kiryoo, farmer leader Nadeem Shah, and experts from Sindh and Punjab, focused on introducing innovative farming solutions to combat climate change and water scarcity.
According to Minister Mahar, the council unanimously approved the cultivation of 22 new crop varieties, including cotton, maize, mustard, rice, pulses, and mangoes. These new seeds are designed to maximize agricultural output while addressing the region’s growing water challenges.
Breakthrough Crop Varieties Approved
- Cotton: Three new varieties, CKC1, CKC221, and CKC6, received partial approval for a one-year trial. Additionally, Ghori 2, Half 3, and ICS 386 were among ten cotton varieties given full approval.
- Maize: New hybrid maize varieties, including Mazhar Gold, Sindh Rani, and Sarhan, received approval.
- Mustard: The introduction of Nea Canola and Nea Toria Gold aims to enhance mustard farming in the province.
- Mango: Sindh has approved a new variety of the famous Mirpurkhas Dussehri mango.
- Sesame: TS-3 sesame variety was approved for cultivation.
- Rice: Four new high-yield rice varieties, including KSK 434, Basmati 515, and Kainat, were sanctioned.
Climate Change and Agricultural Transformation
Minister Mahar highlighted the pressing impact of climate change, emphasizing that rising temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns necessitate a transformation in traditional farming methods. “To sustain agricultural growth, we must adapt to new climate realities,” he stated.
Sindh has outperformed Punjab in cotton production this season, a testament to the province’s adoption of modern farming techniques and better crop management. Despite water shortages, Sindh’s agricultural sector is setting an example for the rest of the country by efficiently managing resources and embracing innovative agricultural practices.
Action Against Agricultural Theft
During the meeting, the minister also directed the immediate suspension of officials following reports of rice crop theft from the Dokri region. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the agricultural sector.
Sindh: A Leader in Sustainable Agriculture
Sindh is emerging as a pioneer in tackling climate change challenges through innovative agricultural strategies. With these new crop varieties, the province is on track to boost productivity, strengthen food security, and serve as a model for sustainable farming in Pakistan.
