Peshawar: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Agriculture, Major (Retd) Sajjad Barkwal, has directed officials to ensure farmers across the province maximize the use of modern agricultural machinery available at the Agriculture Extension Department's Model Farms Services Centers. He emphasized that District Directors of Agriculture Extension must prioritize cultivating crops such as wheat, maize, and rice, tailored to local soil characteristics, weather conditions, and climate. Provisional minister issued these directives while chairing a meeting at the Directorate General of Agriculture Extension in Peshawar, attended by district heads of agriculture extension from across the province and senior department officials.

The meeting was also attended by Director General Agriculture Extension Murad Ali Khan, additional secretaries, chief planning officer, and other officials. Provincial minister urged department officers to take concrete steps over the coming years to address food shortages and achieve self-sufficiency in the province.

'Agriculture is the backbone of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's economy. Therefore, officers at the district level must resolve farmers' issues promptly and promote modern technology,' he stated.

District officers were instructed to compile detailed reports on crop yields, cultivated areas, and quality metrics in their regions, publicly displaying this data on boards alongside comparative figures from the previous year. Immediate measures were ordered to ensure farmers' access to modern seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. Sajjad Brakwal also stressed regular consultation with local National and Provincial Assembly members during the implementation of developmental projects. Additionally, each district must form a committee comprising representatives from all wings of the Agriculture Department.

Provisional minister for Agriculture warned that strict action would be taken against negligent officials. 'Our goal is to make Khyber Pakhtunkhwa fully self-reliant in food production and boost farmers' incomes. To achieve this, we must embrace teamwork, integrity, and modern technology,' he asserted.