October 15, 2001	Monday	Rajab 27, 1422

CACTUS production is to be started on experimental basis in the arid and semi arid zones of the Punjab province for use as fodder , control of soil erosion and soil degradation.

On the success of the pilot project, it would be replicated in other areas and may also be tried in Sindh, NWFP and Balochistan depending on the availability of the soil required for its production through technology transfer. The Punjab government, with the assistance of its Agency for Barani Areas Development (ABAD), has formulated the project for technology transfer of cactus production and utilization, to be implemented on the arid and semi-arid ecological zones of the Cholistan desert (Bahawalpur Division) and Chakwal district. The main objective for launching the pilot project is to develop local capabilities for cactus domestication through the provision of technologies and expert advice, training and planting materials.

Main activities to be undertaken during the implementation of the project in two year’s time includes:_

*Establishment of two collection blocks (nurseries) of cactus for further plantation.

*Identification and introduction of varieties suitable for local climatic and soil conditions.

*Establishment of two pilot plantations for fodder production, soil erosion control and introduction of modern cultivation techniques.

*Imparting training to 300 farmers in cactus production and utilization technologies.

*Training of 40 extension staff on the techniques for fodder production and soil erosion control.

*Three scientists and two managers will also be trained abroad through study tours.

The project will be executed by the ABAD with the financial assistance of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) with active participation of the Fodder Research Institute, Sargodha and the Barani Agriculture Research Institute at Sargodha, and the Barani Agriculture Research Institute at Chakwal. The FAO will provide a grant of Rs18.189 million out of the total cost of Rs21.081 million.

The federal industries and production ministry has supported the project. The nature of the project is not productive and as such no direct benefits would accrue from its implementation. However, tangible benefits are expected after the successful cultivation of cactus and transfer of technology for its replication. It was also pointed out that the FAO is providing assistance on grant basis and as such the project cost would not affect the economy in negative term. As it is of experimental nature it will not be subjected to critical scrutiny when submitted for processing and approval in the Planning Commission.