Sindh implements new conditions for issuing agricultural licenses

Pawan Kumar
KARACHI: The Sindh government has announced new conditions for issuing licenses for agricultural medicines, fertilizers, and seeds, which will now require agricultural graduation. Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Mehr, the Minister of Agriculture, Anti-Corruption, Sports, and Youth Affairs, disclosed this initiative during a three-day workshop organized by the Sindh Agriculture Department at a Research Center. He stated that the government aims to provide financial assistance to agricultural graduates for personal businesses and startups in the agricultural sector.The workshop focused on empowering female students in agriculture by training them in the use and maintenance of tractors and other modern machinery. A total of 43 women received training during the event, with the goal of teaching them how to operate and repair tractors, as well as learning farming techniques. Under this program, women will be able to purchase tractors at subsidized rates and rent them out as a source of income.Minister Mehr emphasized the importance of agricultural education and training for farmers in Sindh. He highlighted the government’s strict measures against fake companies selling agricultural products and underscored the need for modernization in agriculture to boost per-acre production using technology.When questioned by journalists, Minister Mehr defended the work done in Sindh, claiming it surpasses efforts in other provinces. He affirmed the leadership of Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, stating that there is no possibility of a change in leadership at this time.Additionally, the Minister announced the launch of the Sindh Olympics program, aimed at preparing young talent from Sindh for Olympic sports through proper training and coaching.Secretary of Agriculture, Rafiq Ahmed Buriro, who also attended the event, mentioned that the women trained in tractor driving received learning driving licenses. He reiterated the critical role women play in the agricultural sector and stressed the importance of modernizing agriculture.Other notable participants in the event included DG Agriculture Shahab Abro, DG Water Management Nadeem Shah, DG Agriculture Extension Munir Ahmed Jamani, Vice Chancellor of Agricultural University Dr. Fatah Muhammad Mari, and representatives from the Sindh Abadgar Board.