Chris Infotainment

Introduction to the New Satellite-Based System In a significant move towards modernizing agricultural data collection, a new satellite-based system is set to launch next year. This initiative aims to provide accurate and reliable figures on crop cultivation, particularly for Punjab's cotton production. The project seeks to resolve long-standing disputes over production data and enhance transparency in the agricultural sector. By leveraging advanced technology, the system will support informed decision-making and guide future planning related to imports, exports, and agricultural policies. Collaboration and Objectives The project will be overseen by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in collaboration with China and the Land Information and Management System (LIMS). LIMS was established in 2023 with the goal of modernizing farming practices. This partnership highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing agricultural challenges and improving d...

A New Hope for Pakistan’s Cotton Sector Pakistan's cotton sector is witnessing a significant transformation, thanks to the development of a groundbreaking seed variety that promises to nearly triple per-acre yields and withstand extreme heat. This innovation has sparked renewed optimism for reviving the country's struggling textile industry, which has long been a cornerstone of the economy. The new seed, named CEMB-33, is the result of 25 years of dedicated research by the Centre for Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB) at Punjab University, in collaboration with a private agri-research company. It marks a major milestone as it is the first genetically modified cotton seed developed entirely within Pakistan. Field trials conducted in southern Punjab districts such as Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Multan, and Vehari have shown impressive results. The CEMB-33 variety recorded yields of 40-45 maunds per acre, significantly higher than the national average of 15 maunds. These fi...

The Growing Reliance on Chinese Drones in US Agriculture US farmers are increasingly turning to drones and other technological systems made by Chinese companies, despite growing concerns about national security. This trend is particularly evident in the agricultural sector, where the use of Chinese-made technology has become widespread. David Bruntz, vice-president of the US Meat Export Federation, recently faced a dilemma when he needed drones to monitor his cattle on a Nebraska ranch. He found that only one brand offered a "reasonably priced" solution: DJI, a leading Chinese tech company. DJI dominates the US drone market, and its products are now being rapidly adopted across agriculture for tasks such as sowing fields, spraying crops, and tracking livestock. “It's moving rather fast,” Bruntz said, highlighting the speed at which these technologies are becoming essential in farming operations. However, many farmers, including Bruntz, are not entirely comfortable with...

A New Era of Agricultural Cooperation Between Nepal and China Chitwan, August 11 — A significant event took place at the China-Nepal Southern Agricultural Science and Technology Park Hybrid Rice Demonstration Zone, marking a major step in the agricultural collaboration between Nepal and China. The China Foundation for Rural Development (CFRD) and Nepal’s Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU) conducted the first trial seedling transplanting ceremony on Monday, symbolizing the deepening partnership between the two nations. This event coincided with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China, highlighting the importance of their long-standing relationship. The ceremony was not just a celebration but also a demonstration of commitment to enhancing agricultural development and food security in Nepal. During the ceremony, 37 high-yield hybrid rice varieties were transplanted as part of an ongoing demonstration project. These varieties are being tested to dete...