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RAWALPINDI, Oct 21 (APP):Federal Minister for Railways, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, has called for collective diligent efforts for the country’s progress which is primarily based on the agriculture sector. He said that reforms in the agriculture sector through innovative techniques and introducing modern Agri technology are imperative for agriculture.
He expressed these views while delivering his speech as chief guest at the closing ceremony of the “Second International Precision Agriculture Conference,” which was held at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, on Tuesday.
Abbasi emphasized the importance of food security, saying we must increase our agricultural exports.
Appreciating the deliberations rendered by the experts, the minister said that the ideas, practices and expertise shared by the international agriculture experts and scholars would help establish Pakistan’s agriculture on modern lines.
The minister underlined the importance of equipping the agriculture sector with modern technology.
“As the world rapidly advances toward technological integration, we as a nation must utilize our available resources and the efforts of insightful experts to adopt digitalization and modern objectives in agriculture”, he said.
The conference, organized by the university’s Center for Precision Agriculture under the theme “Transforming Agriculture through Digital Innovations”, was conducted both in physical and online modes, where renowned international speakers participated in person, while others presented their papers virtually.
In his address, Vice Chancellor PMAS Agriculture University, Professor Dr Qamar uz Zaman said that the era of automation, artificial intelligence, and precision farming has begun, and it is essential that we align traditional agriculture with modern practices.
“By adopting these innovations, we can reduce production costs, optimize fertilizer use, save water, and significantly increase overall crop yields while minimizing environmental impacts”, he said.
He expressed gratitude to all international and national guest speakers and participants for their valuable contributions to the conference. The Vice Chancellor also commended the conference organizers, congratulating everyone on the successful execution of the event.
During the concern, national and international scholars presented their papers in eight different technical sessions. In addition, the conference featured an Agricultural Expo, IT Exhibition, Bird Show, Food Festival, Art and Craft Exhibition and Poster Competition.
At the end of the conference, shields and souvenirs were presented to the distinguished guests, attendees, and participants.
The third day of the conference will include a Farmers’ Fair, which will be held at the university’s research farm.
Ms Asma Naz Abbasi, MPA also attended the event.