Morocco’s OCP Group discusses soil health cooperation with Punjab

LAHORE: Representatives from Morocco's OCP Group held discussions with Punjab's Agriculture and Livestock Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani on Thursday to explore collaboration in enhancing soil health and implementing balanced fertiliser practices. The meeting, which took place at the minister's office, was also attended by Secretary Agriculture Punjab, Shakeel Ahmad Mian, Special Secretary Agriculture Agha Nabeel Akhtar, and other senior officials.

The OCP Group delegation presented an overview of phosphate fertilizers and their use in developing customised fertilisers tailored to specific soil needs. The dialogue also touched upon the nutrient requirements of key crops such as wheat, rice, and cotton, as well as potential avenues for cooperation to boost soil health and promote judicious fertiliser application throughout Punjab.

Minister Kirmani stressed that the judicious and appropriate application of fertilisers, based on the nutrient demands of each crop, was crucial for maximising per-acre yields. He highlighted wheat as the principal crop in Punjab and underscored the urgency of ensuring a steady supply of fertilisers for the upcoming wheat season, which is a top priority.

Emphasizing the significance of soil analysis for determining appropriate fertiliser requirements, Kirmani noted that, following the Chief Minister's directives, farmers are now receiving doorstep soil testing services under the Labs on Wheels initiative. He further highlighted that Punjab could benefit immensely from the OCP Group's expertise and experience in improving soil health.

Secretary Agriculture Shakeel Ahmad Mian echoed the importance of soil health, stating that it is among the top priorities of the agriculture department. He also commended the Labs on Wheels initiative for fostering the balanced and scientific use of fertilisers.