Traditional Sugarcane Farming Persists in KP Despite Calls for Modern Techniques

Most farmers in KP continue to rely on older seed varieties rather than adopting modern agricultural methods. Financial constraints prevent them from purchasing new, high-yielding seeds.

PESHAWAR: As the sugarcane cultivation season begins in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), farmers are busy planting their crops using traditional methods. However, agriculture experts suggest that shifting sugarcane cultivation from spring to summer and adopting modern research-based techniques could significantly boost production.

Reliance on Old Seed Varieties

Most farmers in KP continue to rely on older seed varieties rather than adopting modern agricultural methods. Financial constraints prevent them from purchasing new, high-yielding seeds.

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Malik Mukhtar, a farmer from Charsadda, said he has been using the same sugarcane seed variety for the past 15 years:
"In our area, the 77/400 seed variety gives the best yield, so we rely on it."

Experts Advocate for Climate-Resilient Varieties

Agricultural experts argue that climate change is affecting crop productivity, and many farmers are unaware of the importance of newer, climate-resilient seeds.

Researchers from the Mardan Sugar Crop Research Institute have developed improved sugarcane varieties, including:
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These varieties are considered more suitable for the region, promising higher yields and better resistance to environmental stressors.

Modern Farming Techniques Could Double Production

Dr. Muhammad Arif, Senior Research Officer at the Mardan Sugar Crop Research Institute, emphasized that using modern seed varieties, balanced fertilizers, and pest control methods could double sugarcane production.

He recommended the use of:
✔️ Urea, DAP, and SOP fertilizers for better crop nutrition
✔️ Pest control sprays to prevent crop damage

Farmers Struggle to Adopt Costly Modern Methods

Despite these recommendations, many farmers find these methods costly and impractical. Experts stress that awareness campaigns and government support are needed to encourage farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices, which could ultimately improve their financial conditions.