MULTAN – Senior officials from the Agriculture Department conducted field visits to major cotton-producing areas to assess crop conditions and support farmers.
Additional Secretary Task Force Muhammad Shabbir Ahmed Khan visited Multan and Vehari, while Director General Agriculture Extension Punjab, Ch. Abdul Hameed, inspected fields in Jampur and Rajanpur.
DG Agriculture Information Naveed Asmat Kahloon toured Yazman, Fort Abbas, and Khairpur Tamewali, and DG Pest Warning Dr. Aamir Rasool visited Liaqatpur and Ahmedpur East.
These visits aimed to monitor farmer support initiatives and evaluate the health of (nutritional) the cotton crop. Farmers received expert advice on pest control, irrigation, and crop nutrition to enhance cotton cultivation.
Officials noted that the cotton crop appeared to be in generally good condition across the regions visited.
The delegation included Director Agriculture Extension Bahawalpur Muhammad Jameel Ghori, Deputy Directors Muhammad Shafiq and Dr. Muhammad Ashfaq, along with other departmental representatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Concepts
What is the role of the Agriculture Extension Department in 2025?
The Agriculture Extension Department in 2025 is actively involved in transferring modern farming techniques and government support programs directly to farmers. It conducts field visits, provides training, and monitors crop performance. This hands-on role is crucial for improving productivity, especially in key crops like cotton.
What is the Punjab Cotton Revival Strategy 2025?
This is a government-backed plan launched in 2025 to restore cotton production across Punjab, focusing on pest control, seed quality, and farmer support. It includes subsidies, advisory services, and real-time field monitoring. The recent visits by officials are part of implementing this strategy effectively.
What is the significance of field visits by agricultural officials?
Field visits by officials ensure ground realities align with policy implementation. In 2025, these visits help assess cotton health, evaluate pest outbreaks, and deliver timely guidance. They are critical for detecting early warning signs and supporting farmers with technical advice and problem-solving.
What is a Pest Warning System in agriculture?
This system monitors pest movements and threats, providing alerts to farmers in advance. In 2025, DG Pest Warning in Punjab uses surveillance to prevent widespread damage, especially in cotton zones where whitefly, pink bollworm, and mealybugs are major threats.
How is agricultural water management promoted in 2025?
Efficient irrigation practices are emphasized due to climate challenges. Officials now guide farmers on conserving water through drip irrigation, canal scheduling, and laser land leveling. This helps reduce water wastage and improve crop yield in the ongoing 2025 growing season.
What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and why is it promoted?
IPM is a sustainable way to manage pests using a mix of biological control, cultural practices, and minimal pesticides. In 2025, the Agriculture Department promotes IPM to reduce chemical use, protect the environment, and cut input costs for cotton farmers.
What is real-time agricultural surveillance?
It refers to the immediate and on-site monitoring of crop conditions, pests, and diseases using human and digital tools. In 2025, such inspections are crucial for making swift decisions during critical crop stages, especially for time-sensitive crops like cotton.
What are farmer advisory services in 2025?
These services provide timely technical support to farmers through mobile units, local offices, and in-person field visits. As seen in the news, advisory services now focus on practical guidance for pest control, irrigation, and crop nutrition to enhance cotton output.
