Chief Secretary reviews cotton maximisation strategy in Balochistan
Quetta, Chief Secretary Balochistan, Shakeel Qadir Khan, chaired an important meeting to review measures for increasing cotton production, expanding cultivation areas, and promoting modern agricultural practices under the province’s cotton maximisation initiative.
The meeting was briefed by Secretary Agriculture Dawood Khilji, who outlined the current status of cotton cultivation, production potential, challenges faced by farmers, and steps being taken regarding improved seed, irrigation, mechanisation, and marketing.
Addressing the meeting, the Chief Secretary said cotton is a vital cash crop for the province, and enhancing its yield can not only raise farmers’ incomes but also strengthen the provincial economy.
He stressed that modern technology, quality seed, efficient water use, timely sowing, and proper guidance can significantly improve per-acre productivity. Official sources noted that expansion of cotton acreage is already underway, and through cotton maximisation, cultivation can be promoted in districts with untapped agricultural potential, bringing barren or underutilised land into productive use.
The meeting underscored that higher cotton yields would directly benefit farmers by reducing costs and improving market access, thereby increasing their earnings. Research evidence suggests that cotton growers in Balochistan can achieve substantial per-acre profits, while better agricultural management can further enhance both productivity and profitability.
The Chief Secretary added that boosting cotton output would also strengthen related sectors including textiles, ginning, transport, employment, and trade, thereby improving overall economic activity. He emphasised that cotton development is not just about one crop but about reinforcing the linkages between agriculture, industry, and exports, which can reduce the import bill and expand export opportunities.
He directed that training programmes, awareness campaigns, field support, and integrated strategies for cotton farmers be implemented without delay to achieve the targets of cotton maximisation.
The Balochistan government reaffirmed its commitment to mobilise all available resources for agricultural development, farmers’ welfare, and strengthening of the provincial economy.