LAHORE — The Punjab government has approved a Rs1.2 billion fund to revive the province’s struggling citrus sector and reverse a fall in export earnings from $200 million to $130 million. Deputy Convener Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha announced the move at the second meeting of the Chief Minister’s Citrus Development Task Force, held at Agriculture House under the chairmanship of Agriculture Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani.
Investment Details
- Allocation: Rs1.2 billion under the Chief Minister’s Kissan Package
- Aim: Provide technical guidance, establish certified nurseries, introduce improved varieties, and strengthen the export value chain
- Export Gap: Annual citrus exports have declined by 35% in recent years
Task Force Meeting Highlights
Attendees reviewed sector proposals and agreed on the need for urgent intervention:
- Deputy Convener: Mohsin Shahnawaz Ranjha
- Secretary Agriculture: Iftikhar Ali Sahoo
- Secretary Industries, Commerce & Investment: Umar Masood
Minister Kirmani noted that kinnow a signature fruit of Punjab suffers from smaller size and shorter shelf life due to disease pressure and climate change. He stressed boosting both yield and quality through certified plant material and modern technology.
Key Initiatives Agreed
- Citrus Park: development for research and training
- Nursery Support: Licensing, registration, and Bank of Punjab loan scheme
- Modern Laboratory: Fast-track completion of a diagnostic citrus lab
- Orchard Monitoring Unit for regular evaluation
- Integration with Kissan Card platform for orchard data
- Youth Engagement: Recruit 100 agricultural interns and 100 local youths for a three-year revival project
- Subsidies: Offer financial aid similar to Punjab’s wheat support programme
Next Steps and Impact
- Value-Chain Enhancement: Improve grading, packing, and export standards
- Board Formation: Establish a Citrus Development Board in Sargodha
- Market Focus: Target new markets by meeting international phytosanitary requirements
By funding certified nurseries, modern labs, and hands-on support, the programme aims to lift production, restore market share, and drive economic growth. Punjab’s renewed focus on its signature kinnow could soon translate into larger harvests and higher exports.
Join the Conversation
What measures would you add to support local growers? Share your thoughts below and help strengthen Punjab’s citrus industry!
