PESHAWAR, Dec 14: A programme has been launched in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata) to develop agriculture and help farmers to increase their income. “A three-pronged plan has been launched which includes reclamation of wastelands, introduction of off-season vegetables and large-scale provision of seeds to the farming community,” the official added.

Under the scheme, 34,000 acre of wasteland in the tribal areas is being converted into cultivable land. So far 19,000 acres have been reclaimed, developed and made cultivable. The project costing Rs299 million would help increase incomes of farmers.

There is vast scope of getting good income from growing off-season vegetables and the government has provided a sum of Rs5.420 million for the purpose. The agriculture department of Fata has laid out a variety of vegetables on 224 acres for the guidance of farmers.

Off-season vegetables can be grown on a small tract and can give a boost to people’s economies in the absence of other sources of income in backward territories.

Special attention is being given to quality seeds that raise production of crops from 25 to 30 per cent and save the harvest from various diseases, the official said.

As part of ‘Grow more food’ campaign, 10,880 bags of quality seeds were distributed among farmers last month. Special arrangements were made for procurement of high-yielding varieties of seeds from other provinces this year to get better produce.

“The farm sector in Fata is being given due priority to achieve the desired results and improve the lot of tribesmen,” the official said.