Tuesday, July 2, 2024 03:30 PM
Dr. Khalid Hasan Urges for Enhanced Pulse Production in Pakistan
- Pakistan's reliance on pulse imports costing Rs.110 billion annually
- Dr. Hasan emphasizes importance of Moong and Maash pulses in local diet
- Encouragement for innovative farming techniques to boost pulse cultivation
Image Credits: UrduPointDr. Khalid Hasan of AARI stresses the need for new pulse varieties in Pakistan to reduce import dependency and enhance local production, emphasizing the nutritional and economic benefits of Moong and Maash pulses.
Chief Scientist Dr. Khalid Hasan of Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI) emphasized the urgent need for introducing new varieties of pulses in Pakistan. Dr. Hasan highlighted that Pakistan currently spends a significant amount of Rs.110 billion annually on importing pulses from countries like Australia and Africa, indicating a lack of self-sufficiency in pulse production.
Speaking at the opening of a 3-day Kisan Mela organized by the Pulses Department at AARI, Dr. Hasan stressed the importance of Moong and Maash pulses in the local diet due to their high protein content and cost-effectiveness compared to meat. He urged agricultural scientists to intensify their efforts in developing new pulse varieties and encouraged farmers to allocate more land for pulse cultivation to reduce the country's reliance on imports.
Dr. Hasan suggested innovative farming techniques, such as integrating pulses with other crops like sugarcane, to enhance production and financial benefits for growers. The event saw the distribution of seed bags for Moong and Maash pulses to support local farmers in expanding pulse cultivation.
