Governor Balochistan, Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, has said that the province is maintaining cordial relations with United Nations agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and other international organizations to strengthen infrastructure, improve public welfare, and accelerate development in remote districts.
Governor Balochistan calls for expanded international cooperation in agriculture & rural development
QUETTA, Oct 08 (APP): Governor Balochistan, Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, has said that the province is maintaining cordial relations with United Nations agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and other international organizations to strengthen infrastructure, improve public welfare, and accelerate development in remote districts.
He emphasized that these partnerships have already produced positive results in education, health, agriculture, and clean water supply, but further expansion of cooperation is essential to ensure basic facilities and employment opportunities in underdeveloped areas.
Speaking during a meeting with FAO Balochistan Sub-Office Head Waleed Mehdi, the Governor said agriculture and livestock are the backbone of the provincial economy. He stressed that modern farming technologies, improved seeds, efficient irrigation systems, climate-resilient cultivation methods, and farmer training can significantly boost productivity.
Jaffar Mandokhail added that modernizing agriculture and livestock would not only make Balochistan self-sufficient in food but also generate thousands of jobs and business opportunities.
He underscored the importance of including small farmers, landowners, herders, women, and youth in development programmes to strengthen the rural economy and expand local employment. Highlighting challenges posed by climate change, monsoon rains, and water scarcity, the Governor called for promoting low-water crops, modern irrigation, and environmentally friendly farming practices.
During the meeting, issues related to agricultural development, livestock, horticulture, food security, farmer training, and climate resilience were discussed. FAO’s Waleed Mehdi invited the Governor to attend a programme at Balochistan Agriculture University for farmers and landowners from 19 districts. The event aims to raise awareness about modern farming methods, productivity enhancement, and advanced technology.
The FAO delegation emphasized that agriculture must be linked to the complete value chain including food processing, cold storage, packaging, and marketing to ensure farmers receive fair compensation for their produce and to stimulate local economic activity.
