NOWSHERA: (FAZAL NABI): Professor Muhammad Saddiq Khan, a prominent agricultural expert from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warns of food scarcity amid climate change and clarified in his talk that climate change is no longer just a theory but a bitter reality.
He stressed that the government and the private sector must work together on a “war footing” to save the agriculture sector. The direct and serious effects of climate change have now started to be clearly visible on agriculture. Agricultural experts have warned that if timely measures are not taken, a food security crisis may arise. In this context, agricultural experts are now focusing on developing seeds that have the full capacity to resist changing weather conditions.
Saddiq said that traditional seeds are now unable to cope with rising temperatures and uncertain rainfall. To deal with this situation, new varieties are being introduced that can maintain crop production even in high temperatures.
He said that experts are developing seeds that can grow better despite low water and lack of rainfall, and are resistant to sudden storms or untimely rainfall.
“We have to take our research out of the laboratories and into the farmers’ fields to minimize the impact of changing weather. He said that government and private seed companies should promote research collaboration. Farmers should be trained on the use of modern technology and climate-friendly seeds.
He added that the budget should be allocated on an emergency basis for agricultural research (R&D). He urged that genetic modification of seeds and adoption of modern agricultural techniques to meet future food demands are no longer a choice but a necessity. According to him, if we do not act today, future generations may face severe food shortages.
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