FATEH JHANG, Pakistan: Citrus fruits, with their nutritional significance, serve as a vital means of international trade worldwide.
In the province of Punjab, citrus fruits are cultivated on an area exceeding 400,000 acres, resulting in an annual production of approximately 21 lakh tons. Pakistan stands as the thirteenth-largest producer of citrus fruits globally, and a significant 95% of this production comes from the Punjab province.
Pakistan earns around $180 million annually through citrus fruit exports. Agricultural experts emphasize that the Potohar region is particularly suitable for citrus cultivation.
Citrus fruits, including blood red, Musami, and Shakri, thrive exceptionally well in this region, providing a lucrative yield. In comparison to traditional crops like wheat and maize, citrus fruits prove to be more economically viable. Recognizing the potential, the Department of Agriculture in Punjab is actively working to increase the cultivation area for citrus fruits.
To encourage citrus farmers, the Department of Agriculture in Punjab is providing a subsidy of Rs. 23,500 per acre. Additionally, the department is subsidizing the installation of drip irrigation systems for water management.
