LAHORE: Over 200 varieties of mangoes were showcased at the MNS University of Agriculture, Multan Mango Festival 2025, on Saturday.

National Seed Development and Regulatory Authority Chairperson Prof Dr Asif Ali along with Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali inaugurated the festival.

The festival highlighted various aspects of mango cultivation, research, production, value addition, marketing, and export.

A large number of scientists, agricultural experts, mango farmers, industry representatives, students, women, and families participated in the event.

VC Prof Ali said mango was one of Pakistan’s most important fruit crops and the university was working to promote scientific research, hands-on training, and modern technologies for the development of the mango sector.

He said that research was ongoing in areas such as the impact of climate change on mango, nursery management, pest control, and yield improvement.

He said that the ‘Mango Small Tree System’ of the university was popular among farmers as it required less space for increased production.

He also said that pests could now be identified and controlled in time through the ‘Smart Trap System’, while the ‘Protein Bait System’ proved effective in managing mango fruit flies.

He said that efforts like online mango marketing, dried mango export and the packaging and branding had greatly improved global access for Pakistani mangoes.

Chief guest Prof Dr Asif Ali appreciated the university’s efforts in making the festival known internationally and helping Pakistani mangoes reach global markets.

He emphasised that value addition, cold chain management, and smart packaging could further increase mango exports.

He also stressed that farmers, researchers, and industry players needed to work together to meet international standards. He said that such festivals could enhance both mango production and exports, strengthening Pakistan’s economy.

Prof Dr Amanullah Malik said that tackling challenges in mango farming required collaboration among young researchers, agricultural experts, and orchard managers.

Chief Organiser Prof Dr Mubashir Mehdi said that all stakeholders of the industry had come together on one platform and it was not just an exhibition but a valuable opportunity for knowledge-sharing through research, experiments, and practical observations.

The festival conducted several activities, including drawing competition for children, nutrition session for women, mango-eating contests, qawwali night and poetry session featuring local poets.

Published in Dawn, August 3rd, 2025