The Punjab Chief Secretary, Zahid Akhtar Zaman recently chaired a meeting where it was decided that ‘Farmer facilitation centres’ would be established at the tehsil level in Pakistan. The centres aim to provide farmers with quality pesticides at controlled rates. The centres will also house counters of renowned pesticides companies where farmers can easily access their products.
Additionally, it was decided that there would be a sample testing of pesticides to check for their quality. The chief secretary has also directed the authorities to expedite the crackdown on spurious pesticides and called upon the agriculture department to play an active role in this regard.
The welfare of the farmers is crucial for ensuring the development of the country, notes Zahid Akhtar Zaman. The meeting emphasized the importance of addressing the issues faced by farmers, such as access to quality pesticides.
Furthermore, a report on pesticides sample testing must be submitted within 48 hours, as per the recent decision.
By having the farmer facilitation centres set up at the tehsil level, the government hopes to promote farmer welfare and boost the country’s agricultural sector.
