LAHORE: “It is unfortunate that despite having fertile lands, abundant water, a suitable climate and hardworking farmers, the agriculture sector has not made the desired progress,” Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif said on Wednesday. He was addressing a seminar on GM Cotton Technology at Chief Minister’s Office.
“All institutions which should be playing a positive role for strengthening the agriculture sector have neglected it,” he said. “Negligence on part of the government towards development of agriculture is also a factor.
” Sharif said billions of dollars had been spent on the import of machinery that could have been locally manufactured. “It is time for scientists to pay attention to their responsibilities and adopt a serious attitude.”
“Had our agriculture institutions performed well, the situation would not have been so dire. There need to identify those who have not performed their responsibilities and hold them accountable.”
The chief minister said interest-free loans were being provided to farmers. “With the help of modern technology, every penny of Kissan Package will reach the farmers. A huge subsidy is also being given on agriculture machinery. The federal government is also providing subsidy on fertilisers,” he said.
