Deputy Commissioner Muzaffargarh Usman Tahir Jappa, accompanied by Deputy Director Agriculture (Extension) Tahir Mahmood Bhatti, visited a modern grape orchard owned by Chaudhry Amjad Ali Kamboh in Union Council Taleri. The visit aimed to promote modern horticulture and increase farmers' income in line with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif's vision.
Review of Grape Harvesting and Post-Harvest Practices
During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed grape harvesting, grading, packing, and post-harvest management practices. He also discussed current market trends, production levels, and marketing strategies with the orchard owner. Officials briefed the Deputy Commissioner that grapes are among the most profitable horticultural crops in the region.
Profitability and Production Costs
The average yield of grapes is approximately 350 maunds per acre. With current market prices ranging between Rs. 8,000 and Rs. 9,000 per maund, the gross income per acre is estimated between Rs. 1.6 million and Rs. 1.8 million. Production costs are around Rs. 250,000 to Rs. 300,000 per acre, leaving substantial profits for farmers.
Government's Commitment to Agriculture
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Usman Tahir Jappa said, "Under the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the promotion of agriculture, modern horticulture, and farmers' prosperity remains among the Punjab government's top priorities." He encouraged farmers to adopt modern orchard management techniques, certified nurseries, and advanced agricultural technologies to achieve higher yields and greater profitability at lower production costs.
Technical Guidance and Future Plans
The Deputy Commissioner directed the Agriculture Department to provide comprehensive technical guidance to farmers on modern horticulture, productivity enhancement, and value addition. This initiative aims to further strengthen the horticulture sector across Muzaffargarh district, ensuring sustainable growth and increased income for local farmers.
