Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) is seeking collaboration with Chinese experts to combat the Panama wilt disease affecting bananas in Sindh. The proposal was made by Dr Fateh Mari, Vice Chancellor of SAU, during a seminar focused on "Modern Fruit Production Technology and Development Trends in China."
This seminar was a joint effort between SAU's department of plant pathology and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences' research institute of pomology. Dr Mari pointed out the stagnation in Pakistan's agricultural development since the 90s, particularly in the fruit sector. He emphasized the necessity of collaborative research to address the Panama wilt disease in bananas, a major issue first identified by SAU experts. Furthermore, Dr Mari highlighted China's advancements in the fruit industry and announced an incentive of up to 1 million rupees for SAU experts developing new fruit varieties, along with a recommendation for a civil award. The seminar also featured discussions on China's fruit industry growth and the development of by-products, underscoring the importance of research that benefits the public and the country.
Source: nation.com.pk