SARGODHA: The University of Sargodha has announced plans to establish model farms and enhance research collaboration to tackle citrus diseases and improve production, aiming to revive the region's citrus exports. This initiative was revealed by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Tasawar Hayat during a meeting with citrus growers, exporters, and representatives from the Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
According to University of Sargodha, Prof. Dr. Hayat emphasized the necessity of sustainable research and a coherent policy to rejuvenate the citrus sector, which is a significant agricultural crop and a key identity of Sargodha. He noted that the sector faces considerable challenges due to changing climatic conditions, viral infections, and other diseases affecting cultivation and exports.
The vice chancellor stated that university researchers prioritize work on citrus, focusing on disease prevention, productivity enhancement, and sectoral recovery. He underscored the importance of coordinated efforts among growers, researchers, and relevant agricultural institutions to achieve sustainable results. Additionally, he mentioned the pursuit of collaboration agreements with agricultural research institutions to support citrus improvement and rehabilitation.
The meeting included participation from Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan, deans, Registrar Waqar Ahmad, Director of the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization, senior faculty members from the College of Agriculture, and representatives of the business community, including Chamber of Commerce Vice President Rao Hamza Qayyum.
During the meeting, chamber representatives, growers, and exporters shared their recommendations and concerns regarding the citrus sector, expressing their willingness to cooperate with the university's efforts to revive the industry. Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan and Dean Faculty of Agriculture Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf also provided briefings on the technical aspects of citrus cultivation and the proposed way forward.