By arresting 45% post harvest losses and promoting CA technology for increasing the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by slowing down their breathing pace, Pakistan can earn more foreign exchange and limit the freight expenses by exporting such commodities through sea freight can bring prosperity not only in farmers’ income but also add substantial profit in the exporters earnings. This was stated by Prof Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan VC UAF while addressing the inaugural session of three days training workshop of CA technology as chief guest in association of Agricultural Support Fund (ASF) here at new senate hall of the university.

Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan maintained that even though a plant of CA technology has been installed at Karachi but there is a tremendous need for its expansion in all parts of the country so as to trickle down its benefits in rural areas. Dr. Iqrar hoped that IHS will be in position to bring forward an empirical data relating to mango, apples, chillies and other perishable commodities which can enable the local CA investors to adopt techniques according to the available data.

Dr. Jim Hill, Associate Dean, International Programs of College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences told the participants that his college has a mega program covering all aspects of post harvest management so there is a possibility for both institutions to share research findings with each others.

Dr. Aslam Pervez, Director Institute of Horticultural Sciences revealed that his institute organized more than dozen training workshops and seminars during the last six months and intends to hold workshops about mushroom cultivation, flower and landscaping, and nursery management in July and September, 2009. He said that Pakistan is producing 14 million ton of fruits and vegetables out of it 4.2 to 5.6 million ton used to destroy during various post harvest practices which could be arrested though CA technology.

Dr. Aman Ullah Malik Project Director of CA technology said that CA project was going to expired after completing one year but with the help and generous funds of Rs. 25.86 million by Pakistan Agricultural Research Board (PARB) the project will remain continue for the years to come. He thanked the Netherland government and private sector for extending CA technology in Pakistan and said such training workshops will lead the way for further expansion of CA technology even in far flung areas of Blochistan which will enhance the farmers and exporters income into many folds. Mr. Khalid Khan Chief Executive of Agricultural Support Fund (ASF) and Dr. Symond also spoke on the occasion.