By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: Owing to the special efforts of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the federal government has allowed farmers in Punjab to export kinnow and potatoes through alternative routes.
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On the directions of the chief minister Punjab, the provincial government had approached the federal authorities for the formation of a high-level committee to facilitate exports of kinnow and potatoes from Punjab. A committee headed by the Deputy Prime Minister sought representation from relevant ministries and key stakeholders to address the matter in a coordinated manner.
The Punjab government had also urged the federation to explore new international markets and reduce export-related costs to ease difficulties faced by exporters and farmers. Practical measures are being taken on a daily basis to resolve issues related to kinnow and potato exports and to maximise foreign exchange earnings.
Punjab produces around 95 per cent of the country’s total output of potatoes and kinnow. During the current year, potato production in Punjab is expected to reach around 12 million tonnes, while kinnow production is projected at 4 million tonnes.
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the hard work of potato and kinnow farmers would not be allowed to go to waste. She added that she remained in contact with the Prime Minister of Pakistan to help farmers overcome their difficulties.
The Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has also added that the provincial government was fully aware of the challenges faced by growers and was providing resources with an open heart to promote agricultural development and ensure farmers’ prosperity.
