Islamabad: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain has reached an agreement with Punjab Minister for Agriculture Syed Muhammad Ashiq Hussain Kirmani to implement joint measures addressing key agricultural challenges, including Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) control, DAP fertilizer availability, and expanding the export market for potatoes.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting was attended by provincial secretaries and directors general from relevant departments who discussed strategies for disease control, fertilizer supply, and crop management. A significant outcome was the decision to establish an FMD-free zone along the motorway corridor in Punjab, aiming to eradicate the disease and achieve an FMD-free status for Pakistan. The initiative will focus on enhancing disease control, vaccination, and surveillance along major livestock routes, relying on effective federal and provincial coordination.

The meeting also highlighted the development of a disease surveillance system for early detection and management of livestock diseases. This system is expected to improve coordination among departments and enhance disease response mechanisms.

Regarding DAP fertilizer, the meeting reviewed measures to ensure its adequate supply during the crop season, emphasizing the need for close coordination to address shortages and ensure timely availability for farmers.

In the potato sector, discussions centered around production planning and expanding export markets. Federal Minister Hussain highlighted the importance of exploring new international markets to sustain demand and provide better returns to farmers. The federal government expressed its commitment to working with provincial counterparts to address farmers’ concerns and strengthen the agricultural sector.