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A high-level meeting was held at the Multipurpose Hall of the University of Sargodha to discuss practical steps to improve citrus production and boost its exports. The meeting was chaired by Barrister Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha, head of the task force formed under the special directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The meeting was attended by key officials from the agricultural and industrial sectors, including Secretary Agriculture Iftikhar Ali, Secretary Industries and Planning Umar Masood, Deputy Commissioner Sargodha Captain (R) Muhammad Waseem, Acting Vice Chancellor and Dean Faculty of Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan, Chairman Department of Horticulture Prof. Dr. Rashid Mukhtar Bilal, Chairman Agronomy Prof. Dr. Athar Nadeem, Director Implementation Dr. Rehana Ilyas, Chairman Plant Breeding and Genetics Prof. Dr. Ijaz Rasool Noorka, President Chamber of Commerce, DG Extension Agriculture, local landlords, farmers, and officials from the Agriculture Department.

Addressing the meeting Barrister Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha emphasized that citrus, particularly kinnow, is the identity of Sargodha and a cornerstone of its economy. However, in recent years, climate change, diseases, and other challenges have adversely affected production. The task force formed on the Chief Minister’s instructions will adopt a comprehensive strategy to increase yield and access to international markets, he added.

He further stated that the farmers of Sargodha are a valuable asset, and their issues will be resolved on a priority basis. Praising the efforts of the University of Sargodha, especially the College of Agriculture, he directed Chairman Horticulture Dr. Rashid Mukhtar Bilal to develop a comprehensive plan (PC-1) in consultation with all stakeholders to ensure prompt implementation.

Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan highlighted that the university has not only established a modern nursery but is also providing advanced facilities to local farmers through research and practical initiatives focused on improving Citrus varieties. He mentioned that a solid strategy is being devised to potentially double Citrus production.

Captain (R) Muhammad Waseem appreciated the university’s special focus on the agricultural sector and stated that under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas, the institution is playing a vital role in promoting agriculture.

During the meeting, Dr. Rashid Mukhtar Bilal informed that the university has taken extraordinary measures for kinnow production and is finalizing preparations for the establishment of a citrus processing unit under the guidance of the Vice Chancellor, which is expected to significantly boost both production and exports.

At the end of the meeting, Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan presented a commemorative souvenir to Barrister Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha on behalf of the University.