Dr. Muhammad Zahid, Director of Agriculture Extension IPM Punjab, highlighted the significant issue of environmental pollution due to the excessive use of agricultural chemicals during his visit to Okara today. He encouraged farmers to adopt integrated pest management (IPM) techniques for sustainable vegetable and cotton cultivation.
Dr. Zahid’s visit included a comprehensive field inspection and a large farmer gathering organized by the Agriculture Extension Department. He reviewed the efforts of the bio lab in rearing beneficial insects and producing bio cards, which are crucial for eco-friendly pest control.
Accompanied by Deputy Director Agriculture Muhammad Ijaz, Dr. Zahid was briefed on the current performance of the lab by the Agriculture Officer of Bio Lab Okara. The inspection also included an evaluation of bio cards in demonstration plots, highlighting their role in pest management.
Addressing the farmers, Dr. Zahid emphasized the importance of IPM in achieving high yields while also focusing on reducing costs and minimizing environmental degradation. He pointed out the health risks associated with the indiscriminate use of chemicals and advocated for the adoption of bio cards as an effective and sustainable alternative.
Bio Lab’s Agriculture Officer Ms. Rasheeda Azam gave an insightful lecture on managing harmful cotton pests through integrated pest management. She informed participants about the availability of free bio cards and encouraged their widespread use.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from local farmers, successfully promoting biological pest control methods in the region’s cotton crops.