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SARGODHA, Nov 17 (APP):The Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha (UOS), in collaboration with the Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) and the Citrus Research Institute (CRI), organized an insightful workshop on “Citrus Harvest, Postharvest Handling, and Export Readiness” here on Monday.
The event brought together citrus growers, researchers, and industry professionals to discuss innovative strategies for improving citrus quality, tackling pest and disease challenges, and enhancing Pakistan’s export potential through efficient logistics management.
Renowned experts / Organizers including Prof Dr Rashad Mukhtar Balal (UOS) highlighted the need to adopt modern citrus management practices, harvesting and postharvest handling techniques to ensure fruit quality, reduce losses, and meet international market standards.
Citrus farmers from various regions actively participated in the workshop, raising field-level issues such as pest infestations, postharvest diseases, and market challenges.
The experts provided practical solutions to these problems, highlighting integrated approaches for disease control, improved fruit grading, and better packaging practices.
On this occasion, Prof Dr. Rashad Mukhtar Bilal expressed his pleasure in announcing that the Department of Horticulture, UOS, will provide true-to-type, disease-free citrus plants to farmers. He said this initiative aims to promote the cultivation of healthy, high-quality citrus varieties, ultimately strengthening the citrus industry and increasing farmers’ profitability.
He further emphasized the importance of strong linkages among academia, research institutions, and industry stakeholders to make Pakistan’s citrus sector more resilient, sustainable, and globally competitive.
The workshop concluded with Mr. Khawar from PHDEC a shared commitment to adopt improved production and postharvest practices for enhancing Pakistan’s reputation in international citrus markets.