Speakers for developing precision agricultural technologies.

Rawalpindi -- Speakers on Tuesday stressed the need of engaging local industry (growers, processors and machinery manufacturers) to develop precision agriculture technologies to meet regional needs.

They highlighted involvement of local industry in research; collaboration with academia and research institutions; effective communication; extension and outreach could enhance adaptation of precision agriculture technologies in Pakistan.

They also stressed the need of developing and initiating collaborative research projects between experts of University of Prince Edward Island, Canada and Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi.

They stated this while addressing a one-day international seminar on innovative technologies in agriculture organised by PMAS-AAUR Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, here on Tuesday.

PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor Dr Qamar-uz-Zaman was the chief guest while DG Agricultural Engineering Division PARC Liaqat Ali Shahid was the guest of honor.

Dr Qamar-uz-Zaman highlighted issues in agricultural development and stressed the need of the use of modern agricultural technology/machinery to enhance agriculture produce. He explained the role of academia in bringing change in agriculture sector and said that education played a significant role in the development of any country.

He also stressed that there was a dire need of strong link between academia and agriculture industry to address the problems and challenges of agriculture sector to boost the economy of Pakistan. He suggested to improve agricultural production system on scientific lines to enhance sustainable food production and urged the scientists of the university to play their role to create awareness among farming community about the latest techniques in the agriculture to make Pakistan a food sufficient country in order to feed the increasing population.

Keynote speaker, Dr Aitizaz Farooque, associate professor, School of Sustainable Design Engineering, University of Prince Edward...