Maryam eyes boost in rice, wheat production

LAHORE: “Consistent hard work has started paying off, as there is a strong possibility of expanding the area under cultivation and increasing rice production,” said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz during a special briefing on agriculture issues in Punjab.

She said, “Rice production and exports are projected to rise significantly. Last year’s rice exports totalled $4 billion, while this year they are expected to reach $5 billion.” She said that cultivating wheat on underutilised government land is now mandatory.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said, “A 30 percent increase in wheat production is forecast for Punjab.”

She also announced that 2,200 acres have been allocated for off-season cultivation of tomatoes and onions, with 1,762 acres already cultivated for tomatoes.

The chief minister highlighted that farmers will receive affordable seeds and other essential inputs for wheat cultivation. “Scientific methods and machinery should be utilised to boost production,” she emphasised.

“A 10 percent increase in production is anticipated due to a 5 percent expansion in the tomato and onion cultivation area, ” she said, adding that 737 super seeders have been distributed to farmers at subsidised rates in Punjab.