Punjab plans to bring one million acres under early cotton cultivation
The Punjab government plans to bring one million acres of land under early cotton cultivation.
Textile exporters and agriculture experts have lauded the Punjab government’s decision, suggesting that permanent solutions and mechanisms were needed to avoid a decline in production in future.
Agriculture secretary Iftikhar Ali Sahoo said that a strategy had been finalised to achieve the target by April 15. He said special committees will be formed at district, division and provincial levels to achieve the target.
Dr Aamir, a faculty member at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, told WealthPK that cotton was the backbone of Pakistan’s economy as the textile sector was its major consumer. He argued that by focusing on cotton production, Pakistan could save millions of rupees being spent on importing cotton.
“Everyone knows that cotton is vital for Pakistan’s economic development. A strong mechanism must be put in place to enhance cotton production in the country,” he said.
“In the fiscal year 2011-12, the country recorded cotton production of 15 million bales, but production declined thereafter to 6-7 million bales per annum,” he said.
