Fruit experts have proposed enhancements in the date palm industry within the Nara subdistricts of Khairpur district, suggesting that the establishment of a tissue culture laboratory, proper cold storage facilities, and provision of pollination equipment, alongside the cultivation of exotic date palm varieties could elevate production from 5.5 million tonnes to 10 million tonnes, thereby potentially doubling the nation's fruit exports.
Comparatively, Egypt leads in global date production with 13 million tonnes, while Saudi Arabia excels in exports with 11 million tonnes. The necessity for improved processing, packaging, preservation, and marketing has been underscored, noting that Pakistani dates are often re-exported with value addition by foreign countries.
Khairpur, contributing 60% to Pakistan's date production, faces challenges that need addressing to boost export and growth. Ghulam Qasim Jiskani, a seasoned date palm farmer and agriculture expert, shared insights at the "First Khairpur Date Palm Festival in Karachi," emphasizing the potential to increase both production and exports. He noted the dominance of the Aseel and Karbalain varieties in Sindh and called for governmental support against monsoon impacts on crops. The festival showcased over two dozen stalls with a variety of date palm products, alongside cultural activities to raise awareness on date production and export.
Agriculturalist Dr Mushtaq Soomro highlighted the importance of training growers in value addition, while Ameer Ahmed Mirbahar, Director of the Date Palm Research Institute, showcased the Ajwa variety among others, grown at the university's orchard. The event also featured exotic and indigenous date varieties, with prices ranging significantly based on the variety.
Source: tribune.com.pk