SINDH AGRICULTURE MINISTRY NEEDS TO ASSESS SCOPE FOR BASMATI

Thaver stated that Sindh is one of Pakistan’s most important rice-producing provinces. At present, a substantial area is cultivated with conventional coarse varieties, including IRRI varieties. While these varieties will naturally continue to be grown in areas where soil, water and climatic conditions are suitable only for them, we strongly believe that there are areas in Sindh where the conditions are favourable for the cultivation of Basmati, Super Basmati and other high-value aromatic rice varieties.

He submitted that farmers should be assisted in identifying such suitable areas and encouraged to diversify towards crops that can provide them with better economic returns.

The objective is not to discourage the cultivation of IRRI varieties where they are agronomically appropriate, but rather to ensure that wherever Sindh possesses the natural potential to produce premium aromatic rice, that potential should be properly explored and commercially developed.

He recalled a time when an aromatic rice variety known as Sughdashi was grown in Sindh region. Its fragrance was so distinctive that the aroma from cooking it would attract the attention of neighbours, who would often inquire about what was being prepared. This illustrates that Sindh has historically demonstrated the capability of producing aromatic rice.

If suitable soil and climatic conditions exist for producing premium aromatic varieties, it would be beneficial for our farmers and the national economy to make optimum use of this natural advantage. High-value rice cultivation can potentially:

– Increase the income and profitability of SME and small farmers;

– Enable farmers to obtain better value from the same agricultural land;

– Encourage diversification towards premium agricultural products;

– Strengthen the rice value chain and related SMEs;

– Create greater opportunities for processors, exporters and other stakeholders; and

– Contribute towards increasing Pakistan’s valuable foreign exchange earnings.

However, the union fully appreciates that farmers cannot be expected to change their cultivation patterns without proper institutional support. For this purpose, it is suggested  that the Agriculture Department may consider a coordinated programme involving:

1. Identification and mapping of areas suitable for Basmati and aromatic rice cultivation;

2. Research and field trials to determine the most suitable varieties for different regions of Sindh;

3. Availability of reliable and quality seed to farmers;

4. Training and awareness programmes for SME and small farmers regarding cultivation practices and economic benefits;

5. Strengthening agricultural extension services to provide practical guidance at the farm level;

6. Demonstration plots and pilot projects in suitable areas; and

7. Coordination with rice exporters, millers, researchers and other stakeholders to ensure market linkage and commercial viability.

UNISAME  firmly believes that SME farmers in Sindh possess considerable potential, but they require the necessary encouragement, technical knowledge, facilitation and institutional support to adopt higher-value agricultural practices. Once farmers are made aware of the opportunities available and are provided proper guidance, many will be inclined and can benefit substantially.