Pakistan’s agriculture sector is plagued by locally made low horsepower tractors, according to the Pakistan Business Council’s (PBC) State of Pakistan’s Agriculture report (PBC).
The tractor industry was protected from imports decades ago to support local manufacturers and boost production. The report stated that Pakistan’s most common tractors have 50 horsepower, despite decades of protection and the government’s insistence on farmers to buy them.
The report adds that the Low-horsepower tractors can only plough soil up to 18 inches. This means that most Pakistani farms have soil compaction of 15–18 inches. The report stated, a “Hardpan” must be broken for cotton to grow sustainably.
Cotton plants grow roots over four feet deep and use soil water. The Hardpan causes cotton plant roots to turn right at 18 inches or less.
The cotton plant’s natural needs aren’t met due to seasonal farm machinery. According to the report, Pakistani cotton farmers use excessive surface watering instead of soil watering.
Incorrect watering attracts insects and increases insecticide use, violating global sustainability standards. “If the correct farm machinery is used, less surface water will mean less insects, less insecticide sprays, and greater sustainability,” the report stated.
Via: Express Tribune
Durust faramya. Yahaan logon ko SOPs aur international practices ka bilkul idea nahin hai
Article info is incorrect, MF range of tractors has 50-100hp in different models MF 455 being the latest with 100 hp and 4WD..
Poor performance is because most of the land owners are selling land to make society. Heavy taxes must imposed on houses above 10 marlas.
Good relief for agriculture sectors
Appreciate this step