- Advertisement -
HYDERABAD, Dec 31 (APP): Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam has marked a major advancement in agricultural research by successfully establishing a 15-acre experimental berry cultivation block on salt-affected and saline land, an area previously considered unsuitable for farming.
Simultaneously, experimental cultivation of modern mustard and wheat varieties has also been initiated at the university’s Latif Farm.
The SAU spokesperson Gul Sher Lochi told on Wednesday that the vice chancellor of SAU Engineer Professor Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal visited Latif Farm and formally inaugurated the newly developed experimental berry block. During the visit, Director Farms Dr. Muhammad Mithal Lund briefed him about ongoing research activities, experimental trials and encouraging initial results achieved across various crops.
The Vice Chancellor was informed that the berry cultivation initiative specifically targets degraded and salt-affected soils, offering a sustainable solution for bringing barren land back into productive use. Additionally, 10 to 11 different “pre-basic” wheat varieties have been planted, and the high-quality seed produced through these trials will be distributed among progressive farmers and local growers in the upcoming wheat season to enhance crop productivity.
Moreover, two advanced mustard varieties, “Cazola” and “Mazola” have been cultivated on raised beds. It was highlighted that the “Mazola” variety contains zero erucic acid, making it highly beneficial for human health, while the “Cazola” variety is known for its higher yield potential, offering greater economic returns for farmers.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal also inspected the onion research project being conducted by university researcher Professor Dr. Muhammad Aslam Bukero, along with banana and mango orchards, and commended the research team for their dedication and scientific contributions.
Addressing the occasion, the vice chancellor stated that the core mission of the University was to promote research that directly benefits farmers, growers and the agricultural economy of the province. He added salt-affected and saline land was one of Sindh’s most serious challenges, and If such land can be made productive through crops like berries, it would be nothing short of an agricultural revolution.
The Vice Chancellor further assured that a PC-I will soon be prepared for the renovation, painting and improvement of offices and other infrastructure at Latif Farm to provide a more enabling and research-friendly environment.