CM aide stresses transparency, reforms to boost farmer welfare

Advisor to the Chief Minister on Agriculture Mian Muhammad Umar has directed officials to improve transparency, strengthen district coordination, and adopt farmer-friendly policies to address challenges facing the province’s agriculture sector.
Chairing a meeting of the Agriculture Department here on Monday Mian Umar reviewed the performance of various wings, ongoing reforms, and future plans. The meeting was attended by Secretary Agriculture Dr. Muhammad Bakhtiar Khan, special secretaries, directors general of different wings, and other senior officials.
Briefings were given on the work of the Agriculture Extension, Agricultural Research, On-Farm Water Management, and Soil Conservation wings, along with updates on development projects and reform initiatives.
Mian Umar instructed the Bureau of Agriculture Information to expand outreach to farmers on modern farming techniques, climate change, crop management, and government initiatives. “Transparency remains the top priority of the Agriculture Department,” he said, adding that merit, accountability, and an effective system would be ensured across all operations.
He directed directors general to improve coordination with districts and develop a comprehensive strategy to resolve field-level issues. Officials were also told to listen to farmers’ complaints and suggestions and take practical steps for redressal.
The meeting reviewed proposals to promote saffron cultivation, increase the use of bio-fertilizers, reduce pesticide use, and encourage environmentally friendly practices. Projects under the Annual Development Programme 2025-26 also came under review.
Expressing concern over the conversion of agricultural land for housing societies, the advisor said protecting farmland was essential and that preventive measures and policy options would be examined seriously.
Officials also briefed the meeting on reforms including transparency in transfers and postings, the Performance Management System, smart attendance mechanisms, Farm Services Centres, and the revision of the Smart Agriculture Policy.
Mian Umar reiterated the government’s commitment to making the department more active, transparent, and responsive to farmers’ needs to support agricultural growth and rural prosperity in the province.